How to Prevent Medicaid Fraud
Medicaid is federally funded, state health insurance offered to low-income individuals. A small amount is deducted from everyone's paychecks to cover Medicaid services. When health care providers or recipients scam Medicaid by submitting fraudulent charges, it impacts everyone. To compensate for the stolen funds, Medicaid must limit services or raise state taxes. Knowing how to identify Medicaid fraud can help prevent it from occurring. Provider and recipient fraud should be reported immediately.
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Instructions
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Examine your medical bill. Check to make sure all the services billed were services you received. Verify dates of treatment. Look for duplicate charges.
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Be wary of anyone offering "free" tests or screenings who then asks for your Medicaid card number. If you are offered free tests or screenings, your Medicaid number should not be required. Contact Medicaid to make sure the services were not billed.
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Question anyone making claims to get special services covered. There are certain health care services and goods Medicaid does not cover.
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Request a copy of everything you sign. Carefully read all documents before signing. Never sign a blank form.
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Do not give out your Medicaid identification number to anyone other than a trusted health care provider. Never lend your Medicaid card to anyone.
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Tips & Warnings
To report fraud, contact your state Medicaid agency or the Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-447-8477.
References
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Tips to Help Prevent Fraud
- Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster: Frequently asked questions of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
- US Department of Health and Human Services: What To Do If You Think You Have a Problem
- Fraud Guides: Medicaid Fraud Steals From Everyone
