Identity thieves are in better shape than ever, both physically and financially, thanks to the availability of patient medical records stored on computers. Hackers find their way into databases to find information like Social Security numbers, residence information, insurance carriers, credit card numbers and employment details. Thieves posing as medical office workers also access information stored in paper files.
Anyone can become an identity theft victim. Persons that are profoundly disabled, such as the mentally impaired or the frail elderly, often cannot manage their own health care matters and are therefore more vulnerable. They must rely on family members or caregivers to fill out medical forms and take care of their medical business affairs.
When a caregiver, or even a family member, is responsible for receiving and paying the medical bills of those unable to care for themselves, they may not be able to determine whether the services listed on the bill are actual or fraudulent, and they may pay for services not even received by the patient.
Medical identity theft can also lead to altered medical records. This is particularly dangerous for the victim, because if the thief receives medical care by using stolen information, that information is entered into the victim’s file and could affect the type of care the victim receives in the future. This could compromise the victim’s own treatment and ability to obtain services.
And insurance companies won’t cover the loss. A medical theft victim may have to pay to keep his health insurance or may end up paying higher premiums to restore the coverage.
But a caregiver can help protect a vulnerable patient against medical identity theft. Besides paying attention to bills and statements of service, a caregiver can:
• Suggest to health care providers that patients should show a photo ID at appointments.
• Caregivers are urged to keep a journal of all medical treatments for the patient to match against incoming medical statements and bills for services.
• Keep all statements, bill records and correspondence letters filed for easy access.
• Communicate with the insurance company and question anything suspicious.
• Check with the three major credit reporting agencies for medical or other unauthorized activity.
• Know how to get help for medical identity theft.
Thieves gather private information from medical records – information that can be used to clean out bank accounts, get a passport and access health care services. But these steps can help protect you and those you love.
To be sure your personal information is safe and to be proactive, call LifeLock today. Receive 30 days free and get a 10 percent discount on enrollment with the LifeLock Promo Code “Defense.”
