State warns New Mexicans of potential vaccine-related scams
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Updated: 12:59 PM MST Jan 21, 2021
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Updated: 12:59 PM MST Jan 21, 2021
The state is warning New Mexicans of an increase in COVID-19 vaccine-related scams. According to a recent release, scammers are targeting older populations who may be awaiting a COVID-19 vaccine. The release reminds residents that while some may receive a call from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other public health officials notifying them of exposure to the virus, they will never need to know your insurance or other financial information. “Scammers rapidly alter their tactics and adapt their schemes to the changing landscape, and we anticipate that they will leverage the COVID-19 vaccine to prey on unsuspecting beneficiaries. Be vigilant and protect yourself from potential fraud concerning COVID-19 vaccines and treatments,” said Samantha Morales, Senior Medicare Patrol Director for New Mexico. If you are enrolled in Medicare, here is what you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine: You likely will not need to pay anything out-of-pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency. You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine. You cannot pay to get early access to the vaccine. You will not be solicited door to door to receive the vaccine. No one from Medicare or the Health Department with contact you. No one from a vaccine distribution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Medicare number, Social Security number or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) recommends that Medicare beneficiaries: Contact your own doctor if you are experiencing potential symptoms of COVID-19. Do not give out your Medicare number, Social Security number or personal information in response to unsolicited calls, texts, emails, home visits or booths at health fairs and other public venues. If your personal information is compromised, it may be used in other fraud schemes as well. Be suspicious of anyone going door to door to offer free coronavirus or COVID-19 testing, supplies, treatments or vaccines. Beware of providers offering other products, treatments or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or receiving any COVID-19-related treatment. If you get a call, text, email — or even someone knocking on your door — claiming they can get you early access to the vaccine, STOP. That’s a scam. Carefully review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), looking for errors or claims for products or services that weren’t received. Follow the instructions of state or local government for other actions you should be taking in response to COVID-19. Contact the New Mexico SMP for help. SMP staff empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers to prevent, detect and report health care fraud, errors and abuse. To visit our COVID-19 Special Section click here >>