When many think about identity theft, they picture someone using their birthdate or Social Security Number to open accounts in their name. While this is often most common, unfortunately, you’ll find that other types of identity theft can be just as devastating. Many are unfamiliar with medical identity theft, which is a less common but still severe form of theft. If you’re concerned about the security of your information and believe you may have been a victim, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores how this happens, what signs you should look for, and how a Los Angeles, California identity theft lawyer can help you.
What Is Medical Identity Theft?
Medical identity theft occurs when someone other than you or your authorized dependents uses the personal information of those covered by the policy to receive medical benefits. This could be to see a doctor, receive emergency healthcare, purchase medical equipment, or get prescriptions filled. Essentially, it occurs when someone uses your information to submit a claim through your insurance.
Not only can this impact you financially in terms of your credit, but it can have drastic and potentially life-threatening effects on the care you receive. For example, if someone pretends to be you, you may receive incorrect treatment in the future as their health information can contradict yours.
What Are the Signs I’m a Victim?
There are signs that someone may be using your insurance information, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these matters to ensure you can mitigate potential damages as quickly as possible.
Generally, the first indication that something is wrong is that you will receive bills or phone calls from doctors you’ve never visited before or for treatment you have never received. Additionally, you may find that your insurance company claims you’ve reached your benefit limit even though you know you haven’t. Finally, if you begin receiving phone calls from debt collectors regarding a medical debt you owe, this is often a clear sign that someone has used your personal, identifying information to impersonate you to receive medical care.
What Do I Do if Someone’s Used My Insurance?
Discovering that someone has been using your personal information to submit claims through your insurance can be upsetting. Not only does it feel violating to discover that someone is pretending to be you, but it can create significant problems. You’ll likely discover that this will severely impact your credit, especially if there is an outstanding debt under your name that you are not responsible for.
As such, it’s essential to understand that working with an experienced attorney is critical to receiving the help you deserve. Not only can they help you reclaim your identity, but they can also fight to have fraudulent charges removed from your credit. At LA Legal Solutions, our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to help you navigate these complex matters. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you through these difficult times.
