Medicare and SCAMS should not even be two words that connect. I find it hard to believe our Federal Government Senior Health program tolerates what has been happening to our Medicare beneficiaries for many years now. One of the things I learned from the beginning of my career as a Medicare Insurance Broker is a non-compliant act called “Bait and Switch.” When an insurance agent or company sets out a menu of lower rates, bonus ancillary benefits, qualifying status, etc. then changes your plan over the phone. Most of the time the Medicare beneficiary was misinformed and seduced into.

Here are some Red Flags:

• Cold Calls from unknown companies
• Door-to-Door Visits
• Unsolicited Materials left on your property
• Persistent follow-up visits
• Impersonation of government agencies
• Common lies like- “The plan is free.” Or “Your current coverage is being cancelled” or “I’m from Medicare- Can I update your records and need your Medicare #?”.
• Calls come in claiming they are updating your existing plan.

Always have a trusted and “local” Medicare insurance agent/broker. I suggest “in-person” representation. After all, your greatest asset in your later years is your health. Also, don’t answer the phone at all unless you know who it is!

I now have 9 years of experience and can guide you through the “Medicare Maze”.
Bonnie Tapscott 509-951-6708 ytapscott@gmail.com t4mi.com

Report Medicare Fraud immediately-

• 1-800-MEDICARE