How to Compare Your Tracker Information to Your Medicare Statements

Medicare fraud is a serious issue that costs the program an estimated $60 billion annually. It affects not only the financial stability of Medicare but also the well-being of its beneficiaries. The repercussions include time lost, stress, compromised medical identities, and potentially adverse health outcomes. Families, friends, and caregivers also face worries and lost work hours while helping their loved ones recover from falling victim to Medicare fraud.

This is where the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Hawaii comes in. SMP is a federally funded, volunteer-based program managed by the Hawaii State Department of Health. Our mission is to “empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report healthcare fraud, errors, and abuse through counseling, outreach, and education.”

Join SMP Hawaii during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, from June 3-9, for a daily dose of fraud prevention tips. Each day, we’ll share practical advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of Medicare scams and help others do the same.

Post Topic Focus: Friday – Compare Your Tracker Information to Your Medicare Statements

On Friday of Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, we focus on the importance of comparing your healthcare tracker information to your Medicare statements. This practice is a critical step in detecting and preventing fraud. Our My Health Care Trackers, available for free through the SMP program, are excellent tools designed to help beneficiaries monitor their healthcare services. These trackers, which were formerly known as Personal Health Care Journals, are now available in Chinese-Simplified, Ilocano, Japanese, Korean, and Tagalog.

Here are some tips for using your healthcare tracker effectively:

1. Record All Services: Write down every healthcare service you receive, including the date, provider, and type of service.
2. Save Your Medicare Statements: Keep all your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) for comparison.
3. Compare Entries: Regularly compare the information in your tracker with your Medicare statements. Look for any discrepancies or services you do not recognize.
4. Report Suspicious Activity: If you find any inconsistencies or suspicious charges, report them immediately to SMP Hawaii for further investigation.

Event Highlight: Saturday, June 8

To further assist you in the fight against Medicare fraud, join us on Saturday, June 8, for a FREE online class from 10:00 – 11:30 am. This class will provide valuable insights on how to save Medicare and protect yourself from fraud.

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89456551003?pwd=gw0Nk4lcF7MRqTxSaUmqFzxaiNvV9R.1

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about safeguarding your healthcare benefits. Stay vigilant, informed, and proactive in the fight against Medicare fraud.