Consumer Alert: Medicare Scam Warning on Free Medical Supplies

West Tennessee Healthcare is sharing an important consumer alert from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General regarding a scam targeting Medicare beneficiaries.

Scammers are contacting individuals by phone calls, text messages, and online advertisements offering “free” urinary catheters or other medical equipment in exchange for Medicare information. In many cases, these supplies are not needed or requested. However, once personal information is obtained, Medicare may be billed fraudulently in the individual’s name.

What You Should Know

• Medicare will never call, text, or email to offer free medical supplies
• Do not share your Medicare number with unsolicited callers or advertisements
• Carefully review your Medicare Summary Notices for unfamiliar charges
• Report suspected fraud immediately

If you believe you or a loved one may have been targeted, report the activity to the HHS Office of Inspector General at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477).

West Tennessee Healthcare encourages patients, caregivers, and families to stay informed and help protect others by sharing this information.