Protect Yourself from Medicare Equipment Fraud

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and orthotics companies play an important role in helping patients live healthier, more independent lives. Items such as wheelchairs, surgical supplies, catheters, respiratory devices, and nutrition or tube-feeding supplies are prescribed by doctors to support care at home. These tools are designed to last through repeated use and provide essential medical support.

Unfortunately, not all companies play by the rules. Some suppliers take advantage of Medicare beneficiaries by billing for unnecessary equipment, failing to prove medical necessity, or—in some cases—not even delivering the equipment at all.

Watch for Signs of DME or Orthotics Fraud

Be on the lookout for warning signs that may indicate Medicare fraud:

• Charges on your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for equipment you didn’t need or never received
• “Free” equipment offers where Medicare was billed without your consent
• Medical equipment or supplies you didn’t request or don’t need
• Billing for equipment in the name of a loved one who has passed away
• A supplier asking for your Medicare number during a presentation, sales pitch, or unsolicited phone call
• Offers of money, gifts, or unneeded supplies in exchange for your Medicare number
• Receiving a basic product while Medicare is billed for a more expensive version

Take Action

You don’t need to figure it out alone. SMP Hawaii (Senior Medicare Patrol) is here to help:

• Learn how to read your MSN or EOB to catch suspicious charges
• Get tips to prevent fraud and safeguard your Medicare benefits
• Protect yourself and your loved ones from dishonest suppliers
• Explore volunteer opportunities to help protect kūpuna across Hawaiʻi

Report Suspicious Billing Today

Fraudulent billing doesn’t just cost money—it threatens the integrity of Medicare and puts beneficiaries at risk.

➡ Contact SMP Hawaii if you see questionable charges or suspect Medicare equipment fraud. Together, we can protect Medicare for our kūpuna, families, and future generations.