Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage

Medicare offers prescription drug coverage to help you get the prescription drugs you need. Everyone with Medicare can join a drug plan to get this coverage. If you aren't sure if a drug plan is approved by Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227). Look for the "Medicare Approved" seal on drug discount cards to make sure you are getting the best deal.

Like other insurance, if you decide not to enroll in a drug plan when you are first eligible, you might pay a penalty if you choose to join later. If you have limited income and resources, you may get extra help to cover prescription drugs for little or no cost. Fore more information, contact the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Medicare Fraud

Medicare fraud can occur when someone steals your Medicare number to obtain medical care, buy medication, or submit fake billings to Medicare in your name. Here are some ways that you can stop Medicare fraud:

  • Guard your Medicare and Social Security numbers.
  • Only give your Medicare number to your physician or other approved Medicare providers.
  • Hang up the phone on telemarketers that pretend to be from Medicare or conducting a health care survey and request your Medicare or Social Security number.
  • Be suspicious of offers for free medical service in exchange for your Medicare number; if it is free they don't need your Medicare number.
  • Review your Medicare statements to make sure that your account was not billed for services that you did not receive. Report questionable charges to Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.
  • For more tips on preventing Medicare fraud, visit stopmedicarefraud.gov.

If you suspect that you have been the victim of Medicare fraud, contact the Department of Health and Human Services' Inspector General at 1-800-447-8477 or by email.