Unfortunately, many people underestimate the impact that identity theft can have on their lives. Though identity theft can severely impact your ability to obtain loans or tank your credit score, you may assume that identity theft can’t impact your bodily health. Unfortunately, however, this is far from the truth. If you are the victim of medical identity theft in California, you may find that your medical records are full of incorrect and fraudulent information, which can result in serious issues when seeking care. As such, the following blog explores what you should know about correcting your records and the importance of working with a Los Angeles, California identity theft victim attorney to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
What Is Medical Identity Theft and How Does It Happen?
Medical identity theft is a form of fraud in which someone uses your sensitive personal information to obtain medical care in your name or use your insurance benefits. This information is often obtained through data breaches of health centers, doctors’ offices, and
Medical identity theft is one of the most impactful forms of theft you can experience, as it can have a significant impact on your health and well-being. When someone obtains medical care in your name, it can impact your medical records and subsequent healthcare. For example, if someone using your information reports an allergy to a doctor, it may be noted in your chart. As such, when you need medical care, the quality of your care may be impacted as the providers may not prescribe the best medication to treat your condition, as it contains an allergen that you don’t actually have. Similarly, this can impact potential life-saving medical care, as you may be unable to obtain the treatment you need based on the procedures another person has undergone in your name.
How Do I Rectify My Medical Records?
If you are the victim of medical identity theft, it’s imperative to understand how to proceed. Generally, you’ll find that under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), you have the right to review and rectify your medical records to ensure their accuracy.
Typically, the first thing you should do in these circumstances is report the identity theft to your health insurance’s fraud division and the FTC. This can help provide you with the next steps to take to secure your identity.
As such, if you believe that your medical records were affected by medical identity theft, you should contact all of your providers, explain the situation, and request copies of your medical records. This allows you the opportunity to locate incorrect and fraudulent information in your records and request that the information be removed from your records.
Medical identity theft is one of the most serious, as your health and well-being could be at risk due to the actions of another party. As such, it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced identity theft victim defense lawyer with Los Angeles Legal Solutions. Our firm can help you fight to reclaim your identity and absolve the fraudulent bills accumulated n your name. Contact us today to learn more.
