Tips to Prevent Insurance Claim Theft

As insidious as identity theft, medical insurance claim theft affects not just your wallet, but your medical records, as well - imagine being denied coverage for essential treatment by your insurance company because someone else, claiming to be you, has already been treated for the same condition.



Reports of medical insurance theft are on the rise. Protecting your medical records and health insurance from claim theft is imperative to your health and your finances.

• Guarding your insurance cards the way you would cash and credit cards can protect you from claim theft. Keep your insurance cards in a safe place, and report lost or stolen cards as soon as you realize they are missing.

• Storing insurance information safely is key to protection. Any records you keep at home - medical records, statements, bills or other correspondence with your insurer or health care providers - should be kept in a secure area, such as a locked file cabinet. A safe deposit box is an even better option and protects your sensitive information in case of burglary or fire.

• Destroy medical information carefully. Do not simply throw away papers with your insurance information on them, and dispose of prescription bottles carefully. Shred documents or use a permanent marker to mark through sensitive information, and remove and destroy labels on prescription bottles, so that any identifying information cannot be ascertained.

• You wouldn't give your social security number or bank account information to just anyone - use the same discretion when giving out medical information, especially in circumstances outside of health care facilities. The Federal Trade Commission advises you not to "give out personal or medical information on the phone or through the mail unless you've initiated the contact and you're sure you know who you're dealing with."

• Using the Internet to file claims and access health insurance info can be helpful, but be cautious when divulging information online. "If you are asked to share sensitive personal information like your Social Security number, insurance account information or any details of your health or medical conditions on the Internet, ask why it's needed, how it will be kept safe and whether it will be shared," the Federal Trade Commission warns.

• Even if you take all the right steps to prevent fraud, claim theft can sometimes happen anyway. Monitor your mail and phone for signs of medical identity theft. Carefully read any statements or correspondence you receive from your insurer in order to catch fraudulent claims quickly, and if you receive bills or calls regarding medical care you did not receive, report these to the insurer and authorities immediately.

• Do not use websites that are not secure; look for "https" in the address website or the lock icon in your browser's address bar, and remember that email is not a secure transaction.