Adapted from Shea Corti, Medicare Rights Center
The holidays should be a time of celebration, family gatherings, and gratitude — but unfortunately, they’re also a time when scammers become more active. Here in Hawaii, medical identity theft is a growing concern, especially for our kupuna who often live longer, reside in rural or isolated areas, and face one of the highest costs of living in the country. Criminals know this and are using more time, creativity, and technology to target our most vulnerable community members.
Medical identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal or medical information — such as your Medicare number — to get medical care, equipment, or prescriptions. The damage can be serious: false medical records, denied benefits, surprise bills, and even long-term harm to your health and financial well-being.
But the good news is this: you can protect yourself. Here’s how.
Be cautious when anyone contacts you unexpectedly — by phone, email, or text — asking for your Medicare or Social Security number. Scammers often claim to be from Medicare, insurance companies, or medical offices.
If you didn’t initiate the contact, don’t share your information.
Store important items like your Medicare card, prescription bottles, billing statements, and medical papers in a secure place. When you’re done with old documents, shred them instead of tossing them in the trash.
If someone offers you “free” braces, COVID-19 test kits, genetic testing kits, or promises a new Medicare card — pause. If you didn’t ask for it, it’s likely a scam.
Be alert for red flags that may signal medical identity theft:
If something feels off, trust your instincts — and take action.
You are not alone. If you think something is wrong, here are the steps you can take:
Ask your doctor or health provider for your medical records. Review them carefully for errors or unfamiliar treatments.
Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or contact your Medicare Advantage plan directly if you see charges that aren’t yours.
SMP Hawaii can help you review your Medicare statements, understand what happened, and guide you through the next steps. They’re here to support you.
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com or call 877-322-8228 to make sure no fraudulent medical debt has been added to your credit history.
If your Social Security number may have been compromised, take immediate action at ssa.gov or IdentityTheft.gov.
Hawaii SHIP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling for all Hawaii residents — from Hilo to Hana to Hanalei. Whether you have questions about your benefits, your options, or how to spot scams, SHIP counselors are ready to help.
Mark Your Calendar:
The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15, 2025 to December 7, 2025.
During this time, people with Medicare can review and change their health or drug plans. Any changes you make will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Hawaii SHIP Helpline: 808-586-7299
Toll-Free: 1-888-875-9229
Website: www.hawaiiship.org
Medical identity theft can be frightening, but with awareness and community support, we can protect our kupuna and loved ones. Stay alert, share this information with family and neighbors, and remember — help is always available.
