Back brace scams target people on Medicare

Scammers have been targeting Medicare recipients with a scheme to get “free or low-cost” back and knee braces. They’re calling, running television ads, and mailing letters to get people to give their Medicare information. But if you give them your information, they’ll use it to fraudulently bill Medicare for braces or other medical equipment. This uses up your medical benefits, which means you might not be able to get the right brace later, if your doctor prescribes one.

If you or someone you know is covered by Medicare, please share these ideas on how to avoid these scams:

• If someone calls and says they’re from Medicare and offers you a “free” or “low cost” brace, hang up right away. No one from Medicare will call you with such an offer. It’s a scam.
• Never give your Medicare or other personal information over the phone to anyone who calls asking for it.
• If you suspect someone is using your Medicare information, check your Medicare Summary Notice to be sure you (and Medicare) are only being charged for services you really got.
• If you need a brace or another type of medical equipment or prescription, talk to your doctor. Sellers on the phone don’t know what you need — and you may need nothing.
• Don’t accept medical equipment you get in the mail — unless you or your doctor ordered it. If it comes to your door and you didn’t order it, you can keep it as a gift. You don’t have to pay for things you didn’t order.
• Find out more about Medicare fraud by visiting CMS.gov or calling 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). Also, read the FTC’s article on medical identity theft.

If you’ve seen or heard about this or other scams, report it to the FTC online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).