Medical Identity Theft: When Fraud Leads to False Bills and Dangerous Records

When it comes to your money and your health, accuracy is incredibly important. If someone has stolen your identity, they may create fake accounts and use your information to receive healthcare. Contact a Florida identity theft attorney today if you need help with your case. This can lead to potentially disastrous results if you have drug allergies or medical conditions, plus you could be left with bills for services you never got.

This blog examines medical identity theft and what happens when fraud leads to false bills and dangerous records. 

What Is Florida Medical Identity Theft?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) defines medical identity theft as any instance where another person steals your personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number, to commit fraud. They may use it to get care at an ER or submit a fraudulent claim to Medicare or another insurer. Doing so can damage your credit standing and put your health at risk.

The Hidden Costs of Florida Medical Identity Theft

Unlike some kinds of theft, medical identity theft can affect many areas of your life. The primary ones are your finances and your physical health.

False Medical Bills and Insurance Claims

By using your information, a medical identity thief can get services while the providers will send you the bill. They could file a claim against your Medicare or other insurance provider to have their treatment covered, yet insurance companies expect you to pay the remainder. You will have to go through a complicated process to report the fraud and dispute the claims, which can take months.

Dangerous Errors in Your Florida Health Records

Perhaps more worrying than the financial impact of medical identity theft is the concern about your health. Suppose you have a chronic health condition that could be aggravated by certain medications. If the thief receives treatment requiring that medicine and it goes into your health record, you could be at risk of illness if doctors don’t recognize the difference.

Warning Signs of Medical Identity Theft

Your first clue that someone has stolen your identity for medical treatment may be an unexpected bill in the mail demanding payment for care you didn’t get. You could also get an Explanation of Benefits statement from your insurance provider, or they may inform you that you’ve reached your benefit limit. It may even go as far as receiving collection notices for unpaid medical debts when you have none. 

As with many things, the best way to prevent a crime is to take precautions to keep it from happening. For medical identity theft, the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Advice group recommends keeping your medications, prescriptions, treatment bills, and insurance cards in a secure location. 

Steps to Take If You Suspect Florida Medical Identity Theft

Here are some recommended actions if you think someone has stolen your identity and used it for medical treatment:

• Review your recent medical bills and records for unusual activity.
• Report any errors or disputed charges to the healthcare facility that provided the service.
• Obtain a copy of your credit reports and dispute unrecognized charges. 
• Change your passwords on apps and websites you use to manage your health insurance.

You can also report suspected medical fraud involving Medicare to the Office of the Inspector General’s Fraud Hotline. 

How Sharmin & Sharmin Identity Theft Lawyer Can Help

Fighting back against medical debt collectors when you have been the victim of medical identity theft can be difficult and frustrating. When you schedule a free consultation with a Florida medical identity theft attorney, you can get answers to your questions and understand what to do next. We offer compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation so you can get your life back on track.

We investigate your case and guide you through taking appropriate legal action against those at fault. Our past clients speak highly of our services, demonstrating our commitment to your well-being. Take action against identity theft and contact us today.