New York StateWide Senior Action Council Alerts Seniors to Medicare Enrollment Scams in October

New York StateWide Senior Action Council Warns of Medicare Enrollment Scams

As the open enrollment period for Medicare kicks off from October 15 to December 7, the New York StateWide Senior Action Council has declared the month's fraud as enrollment scams. This initiative aims to raise awareness among seniors about the potential risks they may face during this critical time. With over 3.6 million seniors relying on their services, the Council emphasizes vigilance against these common scams.

Executive Director Maria Alvarez highlights the importance of being alert. "As seniors explore their options for health coverage, it’s vital to stay wary of possible scammers! The open enrollment season can swiftly turn into a ‘scammer’s paradise,’" she says. To safeguard against potential fraud, the StateWide Council has identified several tactics employed by scammers that seniors should be aware of:

1. Impersonating Medicare Agents: Be cautious of any unsolicited calls claiming to be from Medicare. Medicare will never call to sell plans, so if someone states they are a 'certified Medicare agent,' it's best to hang up immediately.

2. Soliciting Personal Information: Scammers may request sensitive details, including Medicare numbers, Social Security numbers, or bank account information. Seniors should never share such information with anyone who calls unexpectedly or comes to their door.

3. Using Pressure Tactics: Scammers often invoke fear and urgency. It's crucial for seniors to know that they won’t lose benefits if they don’t enroll immediately, despite pressure tactics that suggest otherwise.

4. Offering Gifts or Rewards: Any offer of gifts (valued over $15) for signing up for a plan is illegal. Seniors should not allow enticing free offers to rush their enrollment decisions.

If you suspect your Medicare number has been compromised or if you inadvertently enrolled in a plan without permission, contact the Statewide Medicare Patrol (SMP) at 800-333-4374 or visit www.nysenior.org. StateWide provides trained advisers to assist Medicare beneficiaries in combatting fraud.

Furthermore, the organization delivers educational resources and assistance regarding Medicare queries, plan comparisons, appeals, billing issues, and patient rights to seniors throughout New York State.

According to estimates, Medicare fraud costs taxpayers over $60 billion annually across the nation. To tackle this illegal industry effectively, the StateWide established the Fraud of the Month program in 2022, aimed at promoting awareness of scams impacting the senior population. Alvarez urges everyone to remain vigilant and informed during this enrollment period to prevent falling victim to fraudsters. Together, through awareness and collaboration, seniors can protect themselves and others from these deceitful practices.