Tips for Seniors from North Gwinnett Voice
Although the holiday season is full of good cheer and the Christmas spirit brings us closer to people around us, it is also a time when many people, often seniors, feel alone and seek security in others. Other people take advantage of this vulnerability targeting seniors with scams. Because open enrollment falls around the holidays, the number of Medicare and Medicaid scams increase.
Medicare and Medicaid Scams
We’re sharing an informative interview The North Gwinnett Voice did with William Revuelta, Southeast General Manager for Connie Health. Revuelta advises readers how to spot a common and dangerous scam targeting seniors: Medicare scams.
These scams have become sophisticated and prey on seniors who fall victim because seniors may not be as savvy regarding fraudulent offers and scams offer medical item seniors need, such as free diabetic supplies and at-home COVID-19 test kits. In exchange for these fake supplies, seniors supply vital personal and financial information that allows predators access to the senior’s finances.
Besides free or low-cost supplies, some scams frighten seniors by threatening them with loss of eligibility and coverage unless a fee is paid.
Revuelta advises consulting with a licensed insurance agent if you are unsure of an offer, and NEVER give sensitive personal and financial information over the phone. Other things that should raise red flags include:
- Door-to-door medical supply sales – it’s a scam.
- Medicare and Medicaid agencies do not send representatives to your home to talk to you.
- No one other than your doctor should ask for your Medicare card, Medicare number or Social Security number.
- Medical care is not free – if you are offered free medical care, money or gifts, it’s a scam.
- Check any email from Medicare carefully – scams cleverly disguise their email address to look like an actual Medicare address. Do not click on links in suspicious emails.
Learn more about how seniors can avoid these scams during the holidays from the North Gwinnett Voice. Share this information and details about keeping yourself or a senior family member or friend safe from scams this holiday season.
Rapid International Offers Community Solutions
Safety, Community, Together. Rapid International provides security services, including staffed areas and patrol services, prioritizing neighborhood-based security in collaboration with your community. Rapid’s management has extensive experience in the security industry and in each city, we build partnerships with local law enforcement and emergency service agencies. Together with community members, we work to make people and communities safe and secure.
Please get in touch to learn about our community-level security program – we believe the strength of collaboration and partnership make neighborhoods safer for everyone. In Georgia, call: (706) 844-2586, in California call: (213) 364-1394 or email us at info@therapidway.com.
Fraud and deceit are anxious for your money.
John Andreas Widtsoe
Be informed and prudent.
IG: rapidgroup.ga | Linked In: Rapid International Group, Inc.
Photograph courtesy: Cal Health Report