LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Bad actors frequently prey on the elderly, particularly those with health problems. Now, the Department of Health and Human Services is warning seniors about a scam that plays off their illness.
Scammers reach out to Medicare patients and sign them up for remote patient monitoring devices and services, whether they need them or not. They’ll make contact through calls, texts or online ads. Some even have commercials on TV.
All will likely come from a durable medical equipment company or pharmacy.
Sometimes, the equipment is not FDA-approved. Other times, no equipment arrives at all. The monthly bills do show up, and they are not cheap. In some instances, criminals steal patients’ Medicare information to commit further fraud against them.
HHS warns, consult your doctor or health care provider before enrolling in any healthcare-related services. Hang up anyone offering medical devices without cost to you. The promise to bill Medicare should be a red flag. If someone does try to rip you off with this scam, call the HHS hotline.
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