Wednesday, 6 December 2006
Health Insurance Identity Theft
Most people are careful with things like their credit cards and online information. People pay close attention to these things, and take immediate action if they get stolen.
But healthcare cards get stolen and used all the time. It’s estimated that $85 billion of healthcare dollars are used by identity thieves every year.
Regence has started a program with its Special Investigation Unit to combat identity theft. Stolen healthcare cards can be cancelled, and a new card will be issued. The stolen card will be flagged so the thief can be caught if they try to use the card.
But Regence is quick to tell consumers that they have to protect themselves.
“Your health plan’s explanation of benefits deserves the same scrutiny as your bank statement, your credit card bill or your phone bill. Remember to contact your health insurance carrier right away if you get a bill for services or medications that you never received,” advises the head of Regence’s Special Investigation Unit, Alex Johnson.
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