What it is:
Medical identity theft involves the use of another’s personal information to obtain medical treatment, insurance money, prescription drugs and other services.
How it works:
Medical, like financial identity theft, occurs a variety of ways, including theft of paper or electronic medical records from hospitals and doctor’s offices.
More than other types of identity theft, medical identity theft can be harmful to your health, even fatal. The victim might be turned down for insurance coverage, over a pre-existing condition he or she doesn’t really have. False medical histories can be created, including information on allergies and drug reactions. Should the victim require actual medical treatment, incorrect information within these records could lead to serious risks.
How to protect yourself:
Medical identity theft can happen to anyone. Unlike a scam or phishing attack, the victim often has done nothing to “allow” the theft. Many times, the victim’s records just happened to be among those stolen. A victim might not realize anything is wrong until he or she receives a bill for a surgery they never had.
However, it is possible to monitor your medical history and take a proactive stance. When you receive a statement from an insurance company or healthcare provider, check it for accuracy even if it says “This Is Not a Bill” at the top. Look for office visits you didn’t make, as well as hospital stays or other services that you haven’t used.
Once a year, request a list of benefits from your insurance company. Again, look for errors such as office visits and other services you did not receive.
Request up-to-date copies of medical records. You can even do this each time you visit the doctor or hospital. Correct any errors immediately.
If you believe you are a victim of medical identity theft, file a police report as soon as possible, and get copies made. This will come in handy when you’re trying to straighten things out with healthcare providers and insurance companies.
