Scam/News
Scam AlertSeptember 15th, 2005
A volunteer with the North Carolina Dept. of Insurance Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) in Bakersville last week reported an attempt to defraud a consumer through false representations that she would be enrolled in the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefits program for $109 and then receive all her prescription drugs for no extra charge. The consumer had received an unsolicited call from a young woman claiming an affiliation with Medicare. After listening to the caller's pitch, the consumer was asked to give her bank account information so that the $109 could be deducted from her account. She gave her information to the caller. The caller then gave the consumer a toll-free number to call if there were any questions.
The consumer spoke with the SHIIP volunteer shortly after the telephone transaction occurred. The SHIIP volunteer, the consumer and the bank were able to block withdrawals from the bank account before any could occur. The toll free number given by the caller rings in Markham, Ontario, Canada.
MAP is encouraging people on Medicare to contact their local SHIP office BEFORE signing up for a prescription drug program. Your State SHIP office can help you compare the Medicare Prescription Drug plans so you can chose a plan that suits your individual needs. They can also supply you with a list of the Medicare Approved Prescription Drug plans offering the benefit. The toll free number for the SD SHIP is 1-800-536-8197.
If you have questions about Medicare Fraud please contact The Medicare Assistance Program (MAP).