What is Medical ID Theft?
It’s the theft and use of your insurance ID, Medicare number or Social Security number (SSN) to obtain medical treatment or drugs under your name. And it’s the fastest growing form of ID Theft in the U.S.

How can you tell if you might be a victim?

• You get a bill for medical services you didn’t receive
• A debt collector contacts you about medical debt you don’t owe
• Your credit report contains medical collection notices you don’t recognize
• You try to make a legitimate insurance claim and your health plan says you’ve reached your limit on benefits
• You are denied insurance because your medical records show a condition you don’t have

How can you protect yourself?

• Read every “Explanation of Benefits” (EOB) statement you receive from an insurer. Are there charges for medical services or equipment you did not receive? Contact your insurer and let them know your concerns.
• Ask for a copy of your medical records. You will probably have to complete a form and pay a fee for this. Look for inaccuracies in your records—especially with basic information, such as blood type and diagnosis.
• Request a listing of the benefits your insurer has paid under your name at least once a year. It’s a good way to learn what was charged to your account as thieves often change your billing address to avoid detection. Contact your insurer about any charges you do not recognize.
• Check your credit reports for any medical debts that are not yours.

What do you do if you are a victim?

• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov. The FTC recommends filing this first to assist with filing a police report.
• File a report with your local police, and send copies of the report to your health plan’s fraud department and your health care provider(s).
• Exercise your right under HIPAA to correct errors in your medical and billing records. Write to your health plan or provider detailing the information that seems inaccurate. Include copies (keep the originals) of any document that supports your position and be sure to send your letter by certified mail.

Source: Federal Trade Commission, Identify Theft Resources for Consumers