While you may assume that identity theft is limited to individuals using your information to open accounts or take out loans in your name, you’ll find that there are many different ways in which someone can assume your identity. One of the most dangerous, unfortunately, is medical identity theft. As such, understanding the signs that this is occurring and how to report medical identity theft is critical to protecting your health. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with a San Diego County medical identity theft lawyer to explore your legal options and help you fight for the best possible outcome.
What Is Medical Identity Theft and How Does It Happen?
Medical identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s sensitive information to obtain medical care in their name using their benefits. For example, someone may see a medical provider under your name or obtain prescription medication using your insurance information.
Generally, this form of identity theft is the result of a data breach in which someone accesses a medical center or patient records without authorization. Unfortunately, health care facilities and medical providers are often targeted because they may not implement strong security measures to protect their files. However, medical identity theft can also result from physical theft, like that of a wallet or mail.
This form of identity theft is often the most dangerous, as this can impact your health records. As such, the fraudulent information included in your medical records can impact your future care, which may potentially lead to treatment errors as a result. This can lead to prolonged issues, injury, and in serious cases, death.
What Are the Signs My Information Is Compromised?
Understanding the signs that your medical information may have been compromised is critical, as it allows you to take immediate steps to ensure the accuracy of your medical records while also fighting fraudulent charges and bills.
Generally, one of the most common signs that someone has used your information for medical purposes is if you begin receiving bills from a doctor you’ve never visited or are charged for procedures you’ve never received. This is also the case in the event that an insurance claim is denied because you’ve already reached your maximum benefits for the year.
You may also learn of medical identity theft through inaccurate information on your medical records. If there is information like allergies, medications, or surgical procedures that you don’t recognize, it may be a sign that someone has used your name to obtain medical care in your name.
How Do I Report Medical Identity Theft to My Insurance?
If you are a victim of medical identity theft in California, it’s important to understand how to report the theft to your insurance company. Generally, you should obtain all necessary documents, like your medical records, insurance policy information, and explanation of benefits, before calling your company’s fraud department.
You should note that under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), you have the right to ensure the accuracy of your medical records. As such, you should contact all impacted providers after reporting the matter to your insurance company to rectify your records.
Medical identity theft can be incredibly difficult to navigate, which is why working with an experienced attorney with Barthel Legal is in your best interest. Our team understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why we are here to help you fight for the best possible outcome. When you need help, connect with our firm today to learn more about your rights.
