Billion Dollar Medicare Scheme.

 

South Florida Call Center In Trouble 

There have been recent reports of South Florida call centers being involved in a multi-billion dollar Medicare fraud scheme. Here's a summary of what we know:

Key Points:

• Nature of the Scheme: The scheme targeted seniors who rely on Medicare services. Call centers allegedly misled them into unnecessary medical equipment and genetic testing, then submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare for reimbursement.
• Estimated Amount: Investigators describe it as a "multi-billion dollar" fraud.
• Specific Example: NBC Miami reported on a Boca Raton call center involved in submitting over $67 million in false claims.
• Individuals Charged: Several individuals have been charged, including the owners of the Boca Raton call center who pleaded guilty.

The scheme highlights the vulnerability of seniors to fraud and the challenges faced by authorities in combating such large-scale operations. While some arrests have been made, the report suggests the fraud may be ongoing due to limited resources. Here are a few tips that may protect you from becoming a victim of Medicare fraud.

• Safeguard your Medicare number: Treat it like your Social Security number. Never share it with anyone unless you are absolutely certain they are a legitimate healthcare provider or authorized agent.
• Be wary of unsolicited calls or emails: Medicare will never call you to sell you anything or visit your home unannounced. If someone contacts you claiming to be from Medicare and you're unsure, don't give out any personal information. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to verify.
• Review your Medicare statements carefully: Regularly review your Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) from Medicare to ensure the services listed are accurate and reflect what you received. If you see any charges you don't recognize, contact your healthcare provider or Medicare immediately.

• Don't agree to services or equipment you don't need: Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, especially for free or discounted medical equipment or genetic testing. Research any offers thoroughly before agreeing to anything.
• Ask questions and understand the costs: Before receiving any service, ask your doctor whether it's covered by Medicare and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.
• Never pay cash for services covered by Medicare: Medicare providers will bill Medicare directly for covered services.
• If you would like to review your Medicare or health insurance coverage contact Lon's Insurance we are not a call center but a family owned agency here to answer all your questions and to provide you with honest advice. To learn more Click Here and a licensed agent will be in contact.