Emerging Hospice Fraud Targeting Medicare Recipients
Scammers are impersonating hospice providers and billing Medicare for fake end-of-life care services. Victims lose money through fraudulent claims filed in their names.
How it works
Scammers contact Medicare recipients or their families by phone or mail, posing as hospice care coordinators. They collect personal information like Medicare numbers and medical history. They then file fake hospice claims to Medicare in the victim's name, pocketing reimbursement payments while the victim receives no actual care.
Red flags to watch for
- Hospice agency calls unsolicited asking for Medicare number or SSN
- Pressure to enroll quickly or sign paperwork without full explanation
- You receive Medicare statements showing hospice charges you did not authorize
- Caller claims to work for a hospice but cannot provide verifiable phone number
- Request for payment upfront before any services are provided
What to do
Do not give your Medicare number or personal details to unsolicited callers. If you think you need hospice care, contact your doctor or call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE to find legitimate providers in your area. Check your Medicare statements monthly and report any charges you do not recognize to Medicare and the FBI IC3 immediately.
If this reached you
Source: FBI IC3 . Scam Sentinel summarizes official guidance in plain language; it is a decision aid, not a guarantee.