The New York StateWide Senior Action Council (StateWide), a 54-year-old nonprofit group focused on supporting the needs of more than 3.6 million older adults across the state, has named telehealth fraud as its Medicare Fraud of the Month for July.

This monthly spotlight forms part of the Senior Medicare Patrol initiative, which serves as the key resource helping New York seniors and their families identify, avoid, and report healthcare fraud, mistakes, and misuse. StateWide manages this federally funded program for the state.

Executive Director Maria Alvarez noted that telehealth allows patients to access care via phone or video rather than traveling for an office visit. She stressed it remains a useful Medicare option only when medically required and authorized by a provider.

Common Indicators of Telehealth Fraud:

Older adults receive remote monitoring devices they never ordered.
Providers promote unsolicited monthly telehealth sessions described as free.
Medicare statements show Chronic Care Management billed under telehealth even when the patient did not recognize the service or require it.

Steps Seniors Can Take to Avoid These Schemes:

Limit telehealth use to services suggested by a trusted physician.
Review the Medicare Summary Notice and Explanation of Benefits closely for unexpected charges.
Refuse to share Medicare numbers or personal details with unsolicited callers.
Notify the New York State Senior Medicare Patrol about any billed services never received.

Alvarez added that offers of free telehealth or equipment in return for a Medicare number should raise immediate concern and be reported to the state patrol program.

Beneficiaries can reach trained counselors through the helpline at 800-333-4374 or by visiting the organization's website. StateWide also offers educational sessions, Medicare plan guidance, appeals support, billing assistance, and information on patient rights for seniors statewide.

Medicare fraud is estimated to cost taxpayers more than 60 billion dollars each year nationwide. StateWide launched its Fraud of the Month series in 2022 to draw attention to schemes targeting older residents.

SOURCE New York StateWide Senior Action Council, Inc.