Any time there is a massive change, it presents a perfect opportunity for people to take advantage of the confusion. The recent healthcare plan set forth by President Obama has been no different.
If you’re worried about scammers coming after you using the new healthcare system as ammunition, you don’t have to panic. There are several things you can to keep yourself from becoming a victim.
Don’t Give Out Personal Information
You should never give out personal information to an individual that is seeking you out. Whether they have found you over the phone, through email or in-person, keep this information private.
It’s a major red flag when someone asks for your information. Think about other times when it’s been necessary to provide sensitive information. You most likely initiated the conversation. That’s how it should be because it allows you to be sure of who you are speaking to.
Avoid High-Pressure Situations
Offers that expire quickly are often a sign of scammers. They don’t want you to have a lot of time to think rationally about your decision. They want you to offer your information before you’ve had a chance to process any warning signs you may have seen.
Deals that seem too good to be true usually are. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a bad decision. You might give away more than you bargained for.
Get Familiar With the Healthcare System
The best way to prevent someone from using confusion about the new healthcare system to catch you off guard is to understand it. Go to HealthCare.gov for all the information you need.
As you arm yourself with a better understanding of the recent reform, it will become much more difficult for anyone to trick you. Make sure to check the web site often, as any new information will be posted.
Understand the Most Common Scams
Another great way to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of healthcare fraud is to understand the scams that are being used. Then, when you recognize that someone is trying to scam you, you’ll be able to respond properly.
To make things easier for you, beware of people who:
- Ask you to sign up for a national health care card
- Tell you it’s necessary to obtain a new Medicare card
- Offer protection from a “death panel”
Any of these things should serve as a warning to you that something strange is going on. You should immediately stop communications with any group or person that tries these tactics.
This list isn’t comprehensive. It’s a good idea to do some research on your own. Get on the internet and see what kinds of scams are being used. The more you know, the more difficult it will be for anyone to convince you of something that’s not true.
The most important thing to remember is that you need to protect yourself. There are individuals out there that will try to use the new healthcare reform to further their own selfish goals at the expense of others.
If you remember to not give out your personal information, avoid high-pressure situations, get familiar with the healthcare system and understand the most common scams, you’ll put yourself in an excellent position. Scammers can only prey on those who are unprepared, so start preparing yourself now.
Photo Credit/Source: Wikimedia/Intel Free Press
