Improved
6112 HealthChanged
3786 LivesSaved
3568 Lives0 lives impacted in the last 24 hrs Learn More
Tips for Protecting Yourself from Healthcare Fraud
0 Comments
Counterfeit Drugs
If you take a medication for a chronic condition, save the packaging from the month before and compare the bottle, packaging or the pill itself. Photo: Getty Images
Double Billing
Look at your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) after each doctor’s visit. Ask yourself, “Did I actually see that doctor or receive those services?” If the answer is no, call your insurer immediately. Photo: Getty Images
Medical Identity Theft
If you don’t monitor your EOBs fraudsters have a better chance of stealing your Medical Identity. This can cause both financial and physical harm – if someone else’s information is included in your medical record you could receive false diagnoses. Take ownership of your healthcare finances and request your medical records and bills once a year. Photo: Getty Images
Medication Delivery Errors
Deaths occur each year because patients are given prescriptions at the wrong time, in the wrong dose and of the wrong medications. Make sure you understand your medication regime and that the hospital staff is adhering to it. Photo: Getty Images
Phantom Treatments
Some healthcare criminals bill insurance companies for services never received by patients. If you receive a bill that doesn’t make sense, contact the provider or your insurer. Photo: Getty Images
Invalid Licenses
Some doctors practice without a valid license. To verify a license, find the Department of Regulation for your state and look up your provider’s name. Here, you can also see if they have ever had a disciplinary action against them. Photo: Getty Images
Fake Insurance
Dishonest insurance agents and brokers sell discount cards and insurance cards for fake policies. Any health insurance plans that are priced below industry norms are likely fake. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it is. Photo: Getty Images
Prescription Mix-Ups
Medication errors occur more than you think – a hospital on the East Cost mixed up medication in roughly 1 in 8 prescriptions filled. Take an active role in your care and check your pills to ensure you have been given the drug you were prescribed. Photo: Getty Images
Bad & Low Quality Care
Unqualified and untrained surgeons perform surgeries. Doctors use defective medical equipment to perform exams. Check the reputations of your doctors and facilities. Look for complaints lodged against them. Photo: Getty Images
Add a CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!