The PP&AC Act brings with it many new laws, some of which have already taken effect, while others will do so in the future. Many Americans are still oblivious to what all these new laws mean and the changes that will come as a result. Those Americans that are the most confused and concerned are senior citizens because the PP&AC will greatly affect health care issues very important to them, such as Medicare. This confusion and concern leaves seniors vulnerable to many types of scams by devious individuals who are looking at taking advantage of the situation.
Shortly after President Obama signed the PP&AC Act into law, there was a cable television advertisement that told viewers to call an 800 number to take advantage of a “limited enrollment” period to get special coverage that is now entitled to them by the passage of health care reform. There are also several news articles going around reporting that there are door-to-door salespeople going around selling “Obamacare” insurance policies.
Combine confusion about the new laws and the fear generated by the worst economy since the depression and you have a perfect mix for scammers to take advantage of consumers, especially senior citizens. As agents, we encourage you to talk to your clients and tell them to beware of any potential offers they receive in relation to their health care. This also means you’ll have to stay abreast of the latest scams as well. Here are some areas of the Act that could potentially be exploited:
The $250 prescription drug rebate for Part D - scammers may offer expedited payment for a price.
Better access to nursing home records - scammers may offer bogus data services whereby they try to get seniors and their families to pay a lump sum or for a subscription for data on nursing homes that is either falsified or that is freely available elsewhere.
Better access to nursing home records - scammers may offer bogus data services whereby they try to get seniors and their families to pay a lump sum or for a subscription for data on nursing homes that is either falsified or that is freely available elsewhere.
As more details of health care reform come out, there may be more areas that could be exploited, so continue to be on the lookout. The best way to verify the legitimacy of any offer received by your clients is to call your state department of insurance and see if the organization or person offering the deal is licensed to do business in your state. Once you verify a scam, report it to authorities and your state’s DOI, and then spread the news as much as possible. Stay vigilant my friends.
Want to find out more about medicare supplements? Then visit Alex Stone’s site on how to choose the best medicare supplement for your needs.
Tags: health, health insurance, medicare, medicare supplement, medicare supplements