How to Identify and Report Medicare Fraud and Abuse
We all pay a price for Medicare fraud, abuse and waste!
Health care fraud and abuse contribute significantly to our rising health care costs. It affects not only Medicare clients, but all consumers. Although most health care providers are honest, there are some who intentionally deceive, misrepresent, or bill Medicare for services they never provided. When fraud occurs, someone is using you for their criminal scheme to steal our health care dollars. Trust your instincts and learn how to detect fraud.
How to Report Medicare Fraud
Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or go to the Medicare Fraud website.
Examples of Possible Fraud
- You are billed for services and equipment you did not receive.
- You are offered free testing or screening in exchange for your Medicare number.
- You are charged for filling out claim forms.
- A provider who performs services that exceed what is medically necessary.
- A provider who offers or accepts referral fees from another provider for the referral.
- A provider who misrepresents services that are billed to Medicare.
- A provider who waives the 20 percent coinsurance or deductible.
Medicare Fraud-Related Publications
- Be Aware! Don't be a Victim of Medical Fraud! (PDF 696Kb)
- Preventing Fraud - Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (PDF 148Kb)
- Protecting Medicare and You from Fraud (PDF 167Kb)
- Protecting Your Health Insurance Coverage (PDF 179Kb)
- Your Medicare Rights and Protections (PDF 412Kb)
Some files on this website require a free reader. Download a free reader.