The Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (OIG) fights fraud in Government programs. As part of this effort, the OIG relies upon alert citizens to help them catch those who steal from American taxpayers. Criminals who plot to defraud the Government and steal money from citizens have a new target: people with diabetes.
Although the precise method may vary, the scheme generally involves someone pretending to be from the government, a diabetes association, or even Medicare, calling you.
The caller offers “free” diabetic supplies, such as glucose meters, diabetic test strips, in exchange for your Medicare or other financial information. You may even receive items you did not order.
Do not provide your Medicare number or personal information. Be suspicious of anyone who offers free items or services then asks for your Medicare information. These calls are not coming from Medicare, diabetes associations, or other similar organizations.
Check your Medicare Summary Notice and other medical information to see if you were charged for items you did not order or did not receive. Also, check for items that were billed multiple times, such as glucose meters, diabetes test strips and other supplies.
Report any irregular activity to your health care provider and the Office of Inspector General Hotline at 1-800- HHS -TIPS.
