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  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 8, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , healthcare, MBI, , ,   

    New Medicare Cards Issued: Avoid Scams Now! 

    New Medicare Cards Issued: Avoid Scams Now

    By Greg Collier

    Medicare beneficiaries in several states are receiving new Medicare cards in 2025 due to a significant data breach. This initiative aims to protect personal information and reduce the risk of fraud for those affected. While this effort is legitimate, it has also created opportunities for scammers to exploit the situation.

    A data breach involving a Medicare contractor recently compromised sensitive information, including names, social security numbers, hospital account numbers, and Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers (MBIs). As a result, some individuals are being issued new Medicare cards with updated MBIs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is notifying affected beneficiaries directly through the mail, including detailed letters explaining the changes and providing the new cards.

    It is important to note that Medicare will never call beneficiaries to inform them about the issuance of new cards or to verify personal information. If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from Medicare and asking for your MBI or other personal details, it is likely a scam. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, claiming you need to confirm your new number immediately. If this happens, hang up and avoid sharing any personal information.

    In some cases, legitimate medical providers may contact you for your Medicare number, often in connection with billing issues. However, to ensure your security, it’s best to call them back using the official number listed on their website or correspondence. This extra step helps confirm the legitimacy of the request and protects your personal information.

    For beneficiaries receiving new cards, it is crucial to update your records and provide your new MBI to healthcare providers and insurers to avoid delays in claims processing. If you suspect you have misplaced your new card, you can request a replacement from Medicare directly.

    Protecting your Medicare information is essential in a time when scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. By staying informed, you can ensure your personal details remain secure while navigating these changes.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on December 27, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: counterfeit drugs, GLP-1 weight-loss medications, healthcare, , , , Wegovy, weight loss drugs   

    Weight-Loss Drug Scams Pose Many Risks 

    Weight-Loss Drug Scams Pose Many Risks

    By Greg Collier

    The skyrocketing demand for GLP-1 weight-loss medications, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and similar treatments containing semaglutide, has not only transformed the healthcare landscape but has also created fertile ground for online scams. While these medications have been celebrated for their effectiveness in treating certain health conditions, they should only be taken under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider and for approved purposes. Unfortunately, the allure of these drugs has led to a surge in fraudulent schemes targeting individuals seeking them.

    The demand for GLP-1 medications has grown exponentially, fueled by their reputation as powerful tools for managing weight and certain health issues. Ozempic, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy, approved specifically for chronic weight management, have become household names. However, several barriers, including high costs, insurance limitations, and ongoing shortages, have made these drugs difficult to access for many people. This challenging environment has opened the door for scammers, who exploit the desperation of those looking for affordable alternatives.

    Fraudsters have employed tactics ranging from impersonating medical professionals on social media platforms to posting fake listings on online marketplaces. These schemes often promise discounted medications but deliver counterfeit or ineffective products, if anything at all.

    Social media platforms have also played a significant role in the proliferation of these scams. Some algorithms, designed to engage users by showing them relevant content, have inadvertently helped scammers target individuals interested in weight loss. Videos showcasing what appear to be legitimate branded medications often surface on unsuspecting users’ feeds, creating an illusion of credibility.

    Despite growing awareness of the issue, efforts to curb these scams on social media platforms have faced criticism for being insufficient. The rapid dissemination of fraudulent content underscores the need for more robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

    Complicating the situation further is the legal landscape surrounding compounded medications. Compounded medications are customized drugs created by licensed pharmacists or compounding pharmacies to meet the specific needs of an individual patient. Unlike mass-produced medications, compounded drugs are made by combining, mixing, or altering ingredients based on a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

    When brand-name drugs face shortages, compounding pharmacies are permitted to create alternative formulations. While this practice can provide a legal and beneficial solution in some cases, it has also created opportunities for bad actors to market unregulated and potentially unsafe products.

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has emphasized that compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and has urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing them. Beyond financial loss, victims of these scams may unknowingly expose themselves to serious health risks by using unverified substances.

    While the promise of effective weight-loss medications can be enticing, they should only be obtained through legitimate channels and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The risks of engaging with unverified sources far outweigh any potential benefits. By prioritizing safety and reporting suspicious activities, individuals can help combat the growing threat of online scams in this space.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 4, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , healthcare, Mounjaro, , , , , Trulicity   

    Dangers of Buying Ozempic Online 

    Dangers of Buying Ozempic Online

    By Greg Collier

    The rise of social media marketplaces has brought convenience to millions, allowing users to buy and sell just about anything from their mobile devices. But beneath the surface of these platforms lurks a troubling and dangerous trend. People are illegally reselling prescription medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro through places like Facebook Marketplace. This black-market trade isn’t just risky for your health, it’s outright illegal.

    Here’s why buying prescription drugs through platforms like Facebook is not only illegal but also potentially life-threatening.

    Let’s be clear, reselling or buying prescription medications without proper authorization is illegal. In New York, those caught selling prescription medications like Ozempic can face up to 15 years in prison. Buyers, although typically subject to lighter penalties, can still be slapped with misdemeanors, fines, and potentially jail time.

    So, why would people take such risks? Desperation and the lure of lower prices fuel this underground market. A legitimate month’s supply of Mounjaro can run between $1,000 and $1,200, but some sellers on Facebook Marketplace offer it for less than half the price. For many people struggling to afford their medications, it may seem like a shortcut, but it’s a dangerous one that could cost far more than the money saved.

    The dangers go far beyond the legal risks. Prescription medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Trulicity are intended for specific medical conditions like Type 2 diabetes and must be closely monitored by healthcare professionals. These medications are not meant to be used casually for weight loss without proper oversight.

    Here’s where things get hazardous. The medications you’re buying online could be counterfeit or tampered with. Sellers can alter doses, repackage medications, or store them improperly, resulting in a product that might not only be ineffective but harmful.

    Even if you are lucky enough to get the real thing, buying from an unregulated source means you’re missing out on the critical medical supervision that should accompany these drugs. Weight loss medications like Ozempic can lead to serious side effects, including gallstones, muscle loss, and osteoporosis. Short-term issues like nausea and dehydration are also common. More importantly, patients on these drugs need regular monitoring to ensure that the treatment is effective and not causing harm.

    Another crucial consideration is that these medications are not meant for short-term use. They require ongoing treatment and supervision. Once you stop using them, there’s a good chance you’ll regain most, if not all, of the weight lost. Patients need to be monitored for side effects and require a doctor’s guidance to manage the complexities of these treatments.

    When you’re buying prescription medications from an unknown seller online, you forfeit this safety net. The seller isn’t going to care about your long-term health or whether you’re experiencing side effects. You’re on your own, with your wallet and potentially your health at risk.

    Even more worrying is the rise of bad actors on platforms like Facebook who use tactics like misspelling drug names or using nicknames to bypass automated compliance checks. While Facebook and other platforms actively remove illegal listings, sellers are constantly finding ways to stay one step ahead.

    These platforms might seem reputable, but buying prescription drugs on social media is no different from buying them off the street. There’s no way to guarantee what you’re getting, and you may not even know the correct dosage or volume of the medication you receive. It’s a dangerous gamble, with your health hanging in the balance.

    While the appeal of a cheaper supply of prescription drugs may be tempting, the risks are far too great. Buying medications like Ozempic through platforms like Facebook Marketplace exposes you to severe legal penalties and puts your health at serious risk. From counterfeit drugs to a lack of medical supervision, the consequences of such a decision could be life-altering.

    Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any prescription drug. There’s no shortcut to good health, and when it comes to your well-being, cutting corners can lead to devastating consequences.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: healthcare, , , medical identity theft,   

    Medical identity theft prevents crucial treatment 

    Medical identity theft prevents crucial treatment

    By Greg Collier

    Imagine receiving a cancer diagnosis, only to discover that your path to treatment is obstructed by an identity theft scam. This was the reality for a patient at a free clinic in Brevard County, Florida. She had canceled her legitimate health insurance because she couldn’t afford the copays, and was depending on the clinic’s partnership with a top-tier cancer hospital to access the necessary care through an indigent care program.

    When the clinic attempted to enroll her in the hospital’s financial assistance program, they discovered that someone had stolen her social security number and taken out a fraudulent insurance policy in her name. This policy was used by the scammer to earn a commission, with the premiums being paid using a tax credit and sent to a fake address. As a result, the hospital’s system showed she already had insurance, disqualifying her from the assistance program she desperately needed.

    The fraudulent policy cost the patient precious time. She went months without any cancer treatment, a critical period when early intervention is paramount. The volunteer-led clinic realized the extent of the problem and sought help from the cancer hospital. However, the fraudulent policy blocked this route.

    Upon uncovering the scam, the clinic’s director filed a fraud report and managed to get the fake policy canceled. They are now working diligently to expedite her access to the cancer treatment she needs. Despite this progress, the delay has already had serious implications for her health.

    Medical identity theft can be difficult to prevent entirely, especially for those who are already vulnerable. However, there are several proactive steps individuals can take to help protect themselves from such scams.

    Request a copy of your medical records annually from your healthcare providers to ensure there are no inaccuracies or unfamiliar services listed. Shred documents containing personal information, such as medical bills, insurance statements, and other records that include your SSN or medical details. If contacted by someone claiming to be from a healthcare provider or insurance company, verify their identity by calling the organization directly using a known phone number. Carefully review any Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements you receive from your insurance provider. Look for unfamiliar services or charges and report any discrepancies immediately.

    By taking these precautions, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of medical identity theft and be better prepared to address any issues swiftly if they arise.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: healthcare, , , , ,   

    TikTok is no place to buy Ozempic 

    By Greg Collier

    In recent years, the weight loss industry has witnessed a dramatic surge in the popularity of prescription medications like Ozempic. Originally developed to manage diabetes, these drugs have gained a reputation for their significant weight loss benefits, leading to skyrocketing demand and consequent shortages. Unfortunately, this booming market has also attracted the attention of scammers, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, where unscrupulous operators are exploiting vulnerable consumers by offering these drugs at lower prices and without the necessary prescriptions.

    Investigations by online safety experts were conducted from February through April, have unveiled a troubling trend. Researchers scrutinized dozens of TikTok profiles that purported to sell weight loss drugs such as Ozempic. The investigation revealed a shocking reality. Nearly every transaction was a scam. These scams often employed misleading testimonials and before-and-after photos to lure unsuspecting buyers. However, all these claims were fabricated, designed to prey on individuals desperate to lose weight.

    Researchers said it was not difficult to find several dozen operators offering Ozempic. In every case that they found, they were scams. Despite assurances of authenticity and acceptance of payments through services like Zelle, PayPal, and Venmo, no products were ever delivered to the buyers.

    It was determined that there are three main risks associated with this scam. Firstly, consumers are defrauded of their money. Secondly, there is a danger of receiving counterfeit drugs, which can be harmful. Lastly, even if the genuine drug is obtained, using it without a doctor’s supervision can be dangerous.

    The allure of rapid weight loss can drive individuals to take risks, but the rise of scams on social media highlights the need for caution. Consumers must remain vigilant, verify the legitimacy of sellers, and consult healthcare professionals before using prescription medications.

    For years, online pharmacies have promised convenience and affordability, enticing countless consumers with the allure of easy access to medications. However, this seemingly modern solution harbors a longstanding, insidious threat. Many of these online pharmacies operate as dangerous scams, preying on unsuspecting individuals by selling counterfeit, expired, or mislabeled drugs. The consequences are dire, ranging from ineffective treatment to severe health complications. As the digital marketplace for pharmaceuticals continues to expand, it’s imperative to recognize the enduring dangers these scams pose and take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from their harmful impact.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: healthcare, , , ,   

    Scammers prey on the elderly with hospice care fraud 

    Scammers prey on the elderly with hospice care fraud

    By Greg Collier

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a stark warning about a disturbing trend in Medicare fraud involving the enrollment of unsuspecting individuals into hospice care, often without their knowledge or consent.

    Reports flooding into the FBI’s Houston office paint a troubling picture of scammers manipulating the healthcare system for their financial gain. The FBI says they have received a significant uptick in complaints.

    What sets this scam apart is its brazen exploitation of individuals nearing the end of their lives. Scammers, masquerading as healthcare providers, are enrolling predominantly elderly victims into hospice care unnecessarily. The repercussions are grave, both financially and medically, as victims find themselves saddled with exorbitant bills for services they neither wanted nor needed.

    The consequences extend beyond financial strain. Victims may experience delays or denials of essential medical care due to being erroneously enrolled in hospice. As the FBI emphasizes, this fraudulent activity can have dire, potentially life-threatening consequences, depriving individuals of timely access to vital healthcare services.

    Unraveling the intricate web of deceit reveals a network of collaborators complicit in this exploitation. Behind the scenes, unscrupulous healthcare providers, often aided by complicit physicians and recruiters posing as legitimate marketers or sales representatives, orchestrate these fraudulent enrollments.

    The FBI offers practical advice to shield yourself or a loved one from falling victim to such scams. If an unfamiliar caller solicits sensitive details, refrain from divulging any information or confirming existing data. Remember, legitimate healthcare providers will not initiate contact in such a manner.

    Telemarketing calls can serve as a gateway for fraudsters. If you receive an unsolicited call regarding healthcare services, exercise caution and promptly disconnect the call.

    By heeding the FBI’s cautionary advice, we can collectively combat Medicare fraud and safeguard the well-being of our communities’ most vulnerable members.

     

  • Geebo 8:31 am on January 4, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: healthcare, , , ,   

    Online Ozempic sales pose a threat to consumers 

    By Greg Collier

    Ozempic is a brand name medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is typically used in conjunction with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

    During clinical trials for Ozempic’s approval for diabetes treatment, researchers noted that participants experienced weight loss as a side effect. This observation prompted further investigation into the potential use of Ozempic specifically for weight management.

    Some healthcare professionals may prescribe medications off-label, meaning for a purpose other than what the drug was initially approved for. This has led to a rush on Ozempic prescriptions for patients who do not have diabetes, and only want the medication for quick weight loss. However, Ozempic has not been officially approved by the Federal Food and Drug Administration for weight loss. This has led to a shortage of the medication, which is negatively affecting diabetes patients.

    When a drug like this becomes popular, especially for the sake of vanity, scammers and counterfeiters will try to separate those seeking the drug for its off-label effects from their money. This is a scam that is as old as the internet. If you were online during the late 1990s and early 2000s, you probably had your spam folder flooded with offers for cheap Viagra. While we haven’t seen offers for Ozempic in our inboxes, they have been posted all over social media and less reputable online marketplaces.

    If someone were trying to buy Ozempic from a fraudulent service, the odds are they would pay their money and get nothing in return. In a worst-case scenario, consumers could receive any kind of concoction they would end up injecting into their systems.

    Some of these phony services even go as far as having the buyer undergo a virtual consultation with one of the scammers posing as a doctor.

    Even if someone were to receive an actual shipment of Ozempic, if they’re not using it under a real doctor’s care, the effects could be devastating. Using too much Ozempic could lead to hypoglycemia, pancreatitis, and kidney injuries, just to name a few.

    These scam services are also having their customers pay through some of the usual avenues preferred by scammers, such as payment apps like Venmo and cryptocurrency.

    Ozempic, like any prescription medication, should only be used under the direction of your physician. Using medications without proper medical supervision can be risky and may lead to adverse effects.

    Self-prescribing or obtaining Ozempic without a prescription can pose serious health risks and is not recommended. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable and safe approach to weight management.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 27, 2023 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , healthcare, , ,   

    Medicare scammers don’t know you have Medicare 

    Medicare scammers don't know you have Medicare

    By Greg Collier

    Medicare scammers are some of the worst. There are few things more heinous than threatening the elderly with the health benefits they earned in life. Scammers often call their elderly victims, posing as Medicare, while trying to get the victim’s Medicare information. This way, the scammers can file fraudulent claims under the victim’s Medicare policy. The victim’s will often be told benign things like Medicare is issuing a new type of ID card. Or they’ll be threatened with the loss of their benefits if the victim doesn’t comply with the caller.

    Here’s something to keep in mind, though. Most of the time, Medicare scammers are calling people blind, hoping they have Medicare. For example, a man in Indiana receives up to 35 calls a day from Medicare scammers. Except, the man hasn’t reached the age when most people enroll in Medicare. The man believes the reason he keeps getting so many scam calls is because he did what you’re supposed to do with a phone, he answered it. Once scammers know that they’ve reached a legitimate number and there’s an actual person on the other end, they continue to spam that person with phone calls. This isn’t strictly for Medicare scammers, either, as many different types of scammers will employ the same calling technique.

    As far as Medicare scams themselves go, please keep this one piece of information in mind. Medicare will not call you on the phone, unless you called them first with some kind of issue or concern. Medicare will not call you, asking you for your Medicare number. They will also not call you to offer you discounts on medical equipment or supplies. If Medicare does need to communicate with you, they will do so exclusively by postal mail. Even if the caller ID says that it’s Medicare calling, unless you called them first, that’s not them.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 13, 2023 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: collection agency, , , healthcare, , ,   

    Beware phony medical bills 

    By Greg Collier

    The Better Business Bureau has issued a warning stating people have been receiving phony medical bills in the mail. Scammers are hoping that recipients of the phony bills will be so panicked about it, they’ll make an immediate payment to the scammers. When someone demands an immediate payment in full for a medical bill, that may be a tip off that the bill is part of a scam.

    Whether it’s a medical practice or a medical collection agency, most facilities will be willing to work with you on paying the balance. The first thing you would want to do is research the charge itself. If you didn’t have a doctor or hospital visit on or around the date of service, the bill may be fraudulent. If you did have a visit around that time, contact the medical facility used and ask if this was a service they performed or requested.

    You can also check with your health insurance company to see if any bill from the questionable practice was submitted to them. This also a good reason to keep the explanation of benefits (EOBs) that your insurance company sends you after a claim is completed.

    Legitimate medical practices, facilities, and collection agencies will be more than willing to help set up some kind of payment plan if someone is unable to pay the full balance of their bill. Some practices will even offer a significant discount if you can pay the balance in one payment if it’s a substantial balance.

    If you’re unsure whether the bill is legitimate or not, ask the biller for a debt verification letter. If they refuse to provide this, they could be scammers, as only legitimate facilities will be able to provide this.

    Never give any financial or personal information to anyone claiming you have a medical bill balance without first verifying the charges. This includes your health insurance information. While most of these scammers are looking for a quick payday, others may be looking to commit insurance fraud with your insurance information.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 26, 2023 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , healthcare, , ,   

    Scammers try last-minute Medicare fraud 

    By Greg Collier

    If you are a Medicare recipient and have recently received COVID tests you didn’t order, you might be the victim of Medicare fraud. With the Public Health Emergency around COVID being declared over this month, scammers have been sending COVID tests to Medicare recipients, while billing Medicare at close to $100 a pop. Victims have said they received multiple COVID tests from providers that were outside of their state.

    Now, some Medicare recipients may not think that this is a big deal. They might think they got free COVID tests while Medicare paid for it. So, what’s the big deal? Outside of their Medicare information being compromised, any kind of fraudulent charge billed to Medicare can have negative effects on a policyholder’s benefits.

    If a fraudulent charge goes undetected, the patient may be responsible for paying out-of-pocket for services or supplies they did not receive or need. Medicare has coverage limits for various services and supplies. Fraudulent charges can lead to unnecessary utilization of these benefits, causing patients to exhaust their coverage limits prematurely. If fraudulent claims are submitted using the patient’s Medicare information, it can lead to confusion in medical records and billing systems. This may result in delays, denials, or even the denial of legitimate claims, causing a disruption in the patient’s ongoing care and treatment plans. Lastly, fraudulent claims sent to Medicare increase healthcare costs in general.

    If you receive tests that you didn’t order, contact Medicare immediately at the customer service number on your Medicare card. To help prevent future fraud, policyholders should always review the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements they receive in the mail. These statements show how a claim was paid and to whom.

    Any suspicious charges or discrepancies should be reported to Medicare’s fraud hotline, so they can try to rectify the situation. Additionally, staying informed about common fraud schemes and protecting personal Medicare information can help reduce the risk of fraudulent activities.

     

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