An Rx for Medical Identity Fraud
While you’re having a new prescription filled,
your pharmacist says your new drug conflicts
with another medication that your records
show you take. But you aren’t taking that
medication.
You could be the victim of medical identity fraud. This fraud happens when someone steals your medical information and uses it to get medical products, treatment, or services. If you’re a victim, your medical records can contain mistakes. These mistakes could hurt your ability to get needed care.
Detecting Medical Identity Theft
If you suspect that your medical identity has been stolen, take these steps:- Look over all explanation of benefits forms from your health insurance company. Do this even if you owe nothing. If anything seems wrong, talk with your insurance agent.
- At least once a year, ask your agent for a list of the benefits the company paid in your name. That will show if the company paid for care you didn’t get.
- Check your credit reports for suspicious medical debts. You can get a free yearly credit report from each of the three consumer reporting companies. Call 877-322-8228 or visit www.annualcreditreport.com.
You also can ask for copies of your current medical files from your health care providers. You should get them within 30 days.
Protecting Your Medical Identity
To keep your medical identity to yourself, it’s your right to do the following:- Learn where your medical information has been sent. For example, if you move or switch insurers, your records may have gone to several new doctors or hospitals.
- Get wrong or incomplete information removed from your files.
- Have correct information added.
Today, the Internet carries more and more personal health information. So remember to keep your name, Social Security number, credit card accounts, and health insurance information to yourself. Share your personal medical information only with doctors and other health workers.
