A Stranger Changed My Plan Without Me Knowing

What Are Unauthorized Medicare Plan Changes?

Unauthorized plan changes occur when a Medicare beneficiary’s coverage is switched without their knowledge or consent. This type of Medicare fraud involves scammers fraudulently enrolling individuals into different Medicare plans, often to collect higher commissions or exploit personal information.

Common tactics used by scammers

  1. Identity theft: Scammers steal personal details such as Medicare numbers and Social Security information to make unauthorized plan enrollments.
  2. Deceptive marketing: Fraudsters pose as legitimate insurance agents or Medicare representatives, using misleading sales pitches or false promises to convince seniors to switch plans they never intended to choose.

Consequences of unauthorized Medicare plan changes

These unauthorized changes can have serious consequences for beneficiaries, such as:

  • Loss of access to preferred doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies due to network restrictions.
  • Unexpected increases in out-of-pocket costs from higher premiums, deductibles, or copayments.
  • Coverage gaps where essential services or medications are no longer included under the new plan.

Understanding these risks helps seniors stay vigilant against deceptive marketing practices and protect their healthcare choices. Taking control of your Medicare decisions is key to avoiding the costly fallout of unauthorized plan changes.

Common Medicare Scams Impacting Seniors in Colorado

As a Medicare beneficiary in Colorado, it’s important to be aware of the common scams that target individuals like you. Here are some of the most prevalent scams affecting seniors in the area:

1. Call Scams

Scammers often make phone calls pretending to be from Medicare or other official organizations. They may promise you gifts, cash, or other incentives in exchange for your enrollment or personal information. Remember, legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information over the phone.

2. Improper Billing Practices

Some healthcare providers may engage in improper billing practices, such as charging for services that were not rendered or upcoding procedures to receive higher reimbursements. Always review your medical bills and statements carefully, and report any suspicious charges to Medicare.

3. Fraudulent Enrollment Switches

Scammers may attempt to switch your Medicare plan without your knowledge or consent by using deceptive tactics. They may offer you rewards or benefits to convince you to sign up for a different plan, but their true motive is to earn higher commissions. Be cautious when receiving unsolicited offers and verify any changes with Medicare directly.

How Scammers Exploit Personal Information

Scammers often use personal information obtained through various means to carry out their fraudulent activities. This can include:

  • Phishing emails or messages that trick you into providing sensitive information
  • Data breaches where your personal information is stolen from companies or organizations
  • Social engineering techniques that manipulate you into revealing confidential details

To protect yourself from these scams, it’s crucial to safeguard your personal information and be vigilant about sharing it with others.

How to Protect Yourself Against Medicare Fraud and Abuse

Fraud Protection Tips

  • Safeguard Personal Info: Ensure not to share personal Medicare information over the phone or email.
  • Education on Scams: Stay informed about common scam tactics targeting Medicare beneficiaries.

Being Cautious

  • With Phone Calls: Be wary of unsolicited calls promising gifts or cash for enrollment.
  • With Mail Offers: Avoid responding to suspicious mail offers requesting personal information.

Educating Others

  • Family Members and Caregivers: Share knowledge about potential scam tactics to protect loved ones from falling victim.

Using Trusted Resources

  • For Verification: Always verify the legitimacy of any enrollment decisions through reliable sources before providing any personal details.

Resources Available in Monument and Northern El Paso County for Assistance

Introduction to Elizabeth Bryson Insurance Group

Elizabeth Bryson Insurance Group is a trusted local resource offering free counseling and enrollment assistance to Colorado seniors.

Types of Consultations Available

Consultations can be conducted in-office at 1864 Woodmoor Dr Suite 216, through phone calls, or via virtual Zoom meetings.

Contact Information