In an era where access to healthcare is more crucial than ever, the rise of scams targeting health insurance, particularly Medicare and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), is a concerning trend. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, preying on individuals seeking affordable and comprehensive health coverage. In this blog, we’ll delve into the newest scams affecting both Medicare and ACA, shedding light on how to protect yourself from falling victim to these deceitful practices.

Medicare Scams:

1. Robocalls and Impersonation:
   One prevalent scam involves robocalls from individuals claiming to represent Medicare or official government agencies. These callers may use scare tactics, threatening penalties or suspension of benefits if personal information is not provided immediately. Remember, Medicare will never call you unsolicited or ask for personal information over the phone.
2. Fake Medicare Plans:
   Scammers may approach individuals with offers for fake Medicare plans, claiming they provide additional benefits at lower costs. It’s crucial to verify the legitimacy of any such offers by contacting Medicare directly or consulting with a certified Medicare advisor.
3. Medicare Card Replacement Scams:
   With the issuance of new Medicare cards, scammers take advantage by posing as Medicare representatives and asking for payment to expedite card delivery. Be cautious and remember that the replacement of Medicare cards is free.

Food Card Scams

False offerings for a food card for both Medicare and ACA beneficiaries is becoming prevalent. You may be tempted to call the number to get this food card, but here are a few things to consider:

1. The food card is only for very low Medicare beneficiaries who also have full Medicaid.
2. From an income perspective, these are people whose income is so low they will qualify for food stamps.

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Scams:

1. Phony Marketplace Websites:
   Scammers create fake ACA marketplace websites, mimicking the official site to trick individuals into providing sensitive information. Always verify the website’s authenticity and use the official HealthCare.gov site for ACA enrollment.
2. Bogus Navigators and Agents:
   Impersonators posing as ACA navigators or insurance agents may exploit individuals seeking assistance in enrolling or understanding their options. Verify the credentials of anyone offering help and ensure they are registered with the appropriate authorities.
3. False Subsidy Offers:
   Scammers may promise individuals unrealistically high subsidies or discounts on ACA plans, convincing them to pay upfront fees. Legitimate subsidies are based on income and are applied directly to the insurance premium. Avoid paying any upfront fees and report suspicious offers to the authorities.

Protecting Yourself:

1. Be Skeptical:
   Approach unsolicited calls, emails, or in-person visits with skepticism. Verify the identity of the individual or organization contacting you before sharing any personal information.
2. Use Official Channels:
   When in doubt, contact the official Medicare or ACA helpline or visit their official websites. Avoid clicking on links or providing information through channels you haven’t independently verified.
3. Stay Informed:
   Stay updated on the latest scams by regularly checking official government websites and staying informed through trusted news sources. Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing fraud.