Medicare fraud and scams targeting seniors have been on a steady rise, and experts warn that 2025 may see the highest rates of elder fraud to date. As trusted advocates for senior well-being, McCrite Plaza Senior Living wants to ensure our residents—and all older adults in Kansas City and Topeka—stay safe, informed, and protected.
Why Seniors Are Targets for Medicare Fraud
Seniors are often targeted because they typically:
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Rely heavily on Medicare and healthcare services.
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May not be as digitally savvy as younger generations.
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Tend to trust medical providers and government communications.
Scammers exploit these factors through phone calls, fake billing, identity theft, and deceptive advertising. With newer, more convincing tactics surfacing every year, vigilance is more important than ever.
Top 8 Tips to Prevent Medicare Fraud in 2025
1. Guard Your Medicare Number Like a Credit Card
Treat your Medicare ID as personal financial information. Never give it out to:
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Unsolicited callers
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Door-to-door salespeople
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Email or text solicitations
Only share it with verified doctors or Medicare-approved providers.
2. Watch for Fake Offers for “Free” Medical Equipment
If someone says Medicare will pay for free braces, back supports, or genetic tests you didn’t ask for—be skeptical. Scammers often try to bill Medicare fraudulently and leave you at risk.
3. Be Cautious of Robocalls and Text Messages
Fraudsters often use fake caller ID numbers to appear as Medicare or insurance companies. Medicare does not call or text to ask for personal details. Hang up and report the call.
4. Review Your Medicare Statements Regularly
Check your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Look for:
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Charges for services you didn’t receive
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Duplicate charges
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Providers you’ve never seen
If anything looks suspicious, report it immediately.
5. Don’t Fall for “Urgent” or “Time-Limited” Offers
Scammers create urgency to make you act fast. Legitimate Medicare services never force quick decisions or request payment upfront.
6. Educate Yourself and Others
McCrite Plaza offers community education sessions on senior fraud prevention. Attend workshops or request materials for yourself or your loved ones. Sharing knowledge helps protect everyone.
7. Use a Trusted Family Member or Power of Attorney
If Medicare management is overwhelming, assign someone you trust to help review documents, calls, and offers. This layer of protection can catch fraud early.
8. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
Contact:
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Medicare Fraud Hotline: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
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Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): www.smpresource.org
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Your local Area Agency on Aging or McCrite Plaza staff for guidance
McCrite Plaza: Your Partner in Senior Safety
At McCrite Plaza Senior Living, our commitment to senior wellness extends far beyond our exceptional care and services. With communities in both Kansas City at Briarcliff and Topeka, we actively work to keep our residents safe from the evolving threats of scams and fraud.
2025 may be a peak year for Medicare-related fraud, but with the right precautions and a supportive community like McCrite Plaza, seniors can stay one step ahead. Share this guide with family, friends, and neighbors—and help keep Medicare safe for everyone.
Your safety is our priority. If you have questions about Medicare fraud, please don’t hesitate to speak with our friendly team at McCrite Plaza.
Call Us in Kansas City at (816) 888-7930 or (785) 267-2960 in Topeka, or complete the contact form below.
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