ME&MEE

Medical identity theft is a new trend has emerged in the headlines. This type of identity theft occurs when someone uses a person’s identity - such as insurance information - to obtain medical services or goods. Medical identity theft can cause great harm to its victims. The extreme cases are where victims could be given the wrong treatment/surgery. Here are some prevention tips:

Review Bills Closely: Medical bills and insurance statements may contain important signs that you are a victim of medical identity theft. Open and carefully review each medical document you receive. If something looks suspicious, investigate it right away.

Check Your Credit Reports: Reviewing all three of your credit reports and credit scores at least once a year can help you spot signs of any kind of identity theft early.

Check Your Medical Records: Requesting and obtaining your medical records can potentially reveal serious medical identity theft issues. You may want to also keep a list of the names and contacts for doctors and other health care providers you have visited in the past for reference.

Consult You Health Care Providers: Ask your health care providers about their policies. Does your doctor keep their records in a secure location? Does your doctor use a shredder? Was your ID checked when you signed in?

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