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National Medicare Report Fraud Day September 12

National Medicare Report Fraud Day on September 12 isn't just another date on the calendar; it's a crucial call to action against a persistent problem that drains billions from a lifeline meant for millions. Since 1965, Medicare has promised peace of mind to those aged 65 and older, along with certain disabled individuals, offering a safety net that's become indispensable. Yet, where there's money, there's mischief. Medicare fraud—from billing for phantom services to identity theft—threatens to undermine this trust. Recognizing the gravity of the issue, 2010 marked the inaugural observance, following the Affordable Care Act's bolstering of fraud prevention measures. This day isn't just about highlighting the scams that jeopardize the health and wallets of beneficiaries; it's a rallying cry for vigilance, urging everyone to play detective and protector. Why? Because safeguarding Medicare's integrity ensures it can continue to serve as a cornerstone of care for generations to come.

Key Takeaway

National Medicare Report Fraud Day on September 12 raises awareness about Medicare fraud and the need to report suspected instances of fraud.
The day is significant because it educates the public about Medicare fraud, encourages reporting, and strengthens fraud prevention efforts through collaboration between various organizations.

Timeline

2007
Medicare Fraud Strike Force
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force is created through a partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services to prevent and prosecute Medicare fraud.
2009
Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team
The Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT) is announced, bringing together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to combat health care fraud.
2010
First National Health Care Fraud Takedown
The first National Health Care Fraud Takedown results in charges against 94 individuals for approximately $251 million in false billings.
2011
Medicare Fraud Summit
The first Medicare Fraud Summit is held, bringing together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, as well as health care providers and stakeholders, to discuss strategies for combating Medicare fraud.
2012
National Medicare Report Fraud Day September 12
The first National Medicare Report Fraud Day is observed on September 12, encouraging Medicare beneficiaries to report any suspected fraud.
2013
Record-Breaking Medicare Fraud Takedown
The largest Medicare fraud takedown in history results in charges against 89 individuals for approximately $223 million in false billings.
2014
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Expansion
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force expands to nine cities, including Los Angeles and Houston.
2015
Historic Crackdown on Medicare Fraud
A historic crackdown on Medicare fraud results in charges against 243 individuals for approximately $712 million in false billings.
2016
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Anniversary
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force celebrates its 10-year anniversary and has charged more than 3,500 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $12.5 billion.
2017
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Operations
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force conducts operations in 12 cities, resulting in charges against 412 individuals for approximately $1.3 billion in false billings.
2018
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Results
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force obtains 764 indictments and 587 convictions, resulting in the recovery of over $2 billion in healthcare fraud.
2019
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Anniversary
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force celebrates its 12-year anniversary and has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $16 billion.
2020
Medicare Fraud Strike Force Operations
The Medicare Fraud Strike Force charges 345 individuals for over $6 billion in false billings, in what is described as the largest health care fraud takedown in history.

Day Activities

1. Kick-off with Education: National Medicare Report Fraud Day starts with a bang, focusing on enlightening folks about the nitty-gritty of Medicare fraud. Workshops and webinars galore, experts from CMS and OIG share their wisdom on spotting and reporting fishy activities. It's like a crash course in safeguarding your health benefits, making sure everyone's in the know.

2. Engaging the Community: Next up, local communities take the spotlight, hosting info booths and Q&A sessions in public spaces. Picture this: bustling town halls and community centers where volunteers hand out pamphlets and chat up passersby about the perils of Medicare fraud. It's grassroots efforts at their finest, making waves one conversation at a time.

3. Digital Blitz: Wrapping up the day, a digital campaign takes over social media, spreading the word far and wide. With catchy hashtags and compelling stories, the online world buzzes with tips on protecting personal info and reporting scams. It's a virtual rally, rallying troops across the nation to stand guard against fraudsters.

Why We Love This Day

  • Spotlights the fight against Medicare fraud: Who doesn't love a good David vs. Goliath story? On National Medicare Report Fraud Day, we're all enlisted in the battle against the Goliaths of Medicare fraud, shining a spotlight on those sneaky tactics like billing for phantom services or stealing identities. It's a day to feel like a hero by doing something as simple as reporting suspicious activities.

  • Educates on the importance of vigilance: Knowledge is power, right? This day does a bang-up job of teaching us all how to keep our eyes peeled for fraud. It's not just about saving Uncle Sam a few bucks; it's about safeguarding our grandparents' health and ensuring that Medicare dollars are spent on actual care. So, on September 12, we all get a crash course in being watchdogs for our community's well-being.

  • Encourages community involvement: There's nothing like coming together for a common cause to warm the heart. National Medicare Report Fraud Day reminds us that we're all in this together, playing detective in our own right. Reporting fraud isn't just a solo mission; it's a community effort that makes us all feel connected and proactive in protecting a program that millions of Americans rely on. Plus, who doesn't enjoy the chance to be a part of something bigger than themselves?

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
SEPTEMBER 12 2022
SEPTEMBER 12 2023
SEPTEMBER 12 2024
SEPTEMBER 12 2025
SEPTEMBER 12 2026
SEPTEMBER 12 2027
SEPTEMBER 12 2028

FAQ

How do I report Medicare fraud in NC?

To report Medicare fraud in North Carolina, get in touch with the Office of Inspector General at the US Department of Health and Human Services. Just dial (800) 447-8477 and you'll be on your way to helping combat fraud.