At California SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol), we know that Medicare fraud can directly impact your health. Being enrolled in services you don’t need—like hospice or medical equipment—can lead to delays in care, confusion about your coverage, and even serious health consequences.
Champion Your Health by Protecting Your Medicare
One important way to take control of your health is to stay alert to Medicare fraud. Here’s how:
Watch for red flags:
- Bills for services or equipment you never received
- Being offered “free” medical equipment or services
- Providers asking for your Medicare number for non-medical reasons
- Pressure to sign forms you don’t understand
Review your Medicare Summary Notices regularly and report anything suspicious to the California SMP at 1-855-613-7080.
Know What’s “Hot” in Medicare Fraud
Part of noticing the red flags is knowing what scams are happening now. Come join our free webinar during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week to learn just this!
“Medicare Fraud in California: What Scams Are ‘Hot’ & How You Can Prevent Fraud”
📅 Wednesday, June 3 at 10:00 AM – Register Today!
Meet our team (we’re a fun group!), hear about current cases and learn tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud. We’ll share about Medicare Fraud Prevention Week (6/1 – 6/5) and how you can join the movement to stop fraud.
Take Action
If you suspect Medicare fraud:
- Contact California SMP for free, confidential help
- Don’t share your Medicare number with unknown callers
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it probably is
A Healthier You Includes Protection
Championing your health means so much — being active, learning new things, laughing with friends, engaging in community, eating healthy foods and enjoying time outdoors. It also includes accessing your healthcare, making informed decisions, advocacy for you and your loved ones, knowing your health care rights, and protecting yourself from harm—including fraud.
This Older Americans Month, take a step toward safeguarding both your health and your Medicare. We’re hear to support you.
- Contact California SMP to report suspected fraud at 1-855-613-7080
- Contact your local Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) for free, individual and unbiased assistance with all things Medicare, including understanding and accessing your health care benefits and rights
