October 15th begins open enrollment for Medicare. As you and the over 60 million other participants consider the many options, don’t forget to keep an eye out for scams. Scammers use this time as an opportunity to take advantage of older adults.
Here are some common Medicare scams and how to avoid them:
- You receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from Medicare. They say you need to provide your Medicare number or credit card information in order to sign up for a plan. HANG UP! Medicare NEVER calls beneficiaries to sign up.
- Other tricksters are calling asking for consumers to update their information with the new Medicare number. DO NOT give out your new Medicare ID. Even though it is no longer your social security number, it still needs to be protected.
- You get a phone call from a representative claiming to be from Medicare, asking you to confirm or update billing information. HANG UP! Medicare will not call you and they will not ask for payment over the phone or through email.
- Part D Prescription Drug is NOT mandatory.
- If someone asks for your personal information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal details, hang up and call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Medicare open enrollment for 2022 coverage begins on October 15th and ends on December 7th. The best place for information is online at Medicare.gov, calling Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or SHIP (TN State Health Insurance Assistance Program) at 1-877-801-0044. SHIP offers free and unbiased Medicare information and counseling.
Sources: Medicare.gov and AARP
This content brought to you in partnership with AgeWell Middle Tennessee. AgeWell Middle Tennessee champions informed and positive aging and serves as the area’s catalyst for collaborative solutions. Visit their website to learn more about the work they are doing and how you can get involved.