Medicare Coverage Gap Rebate: Avoid Fraud

 

As reported previously, for Medicare consumers who this year have fallen into the coverage gap in Medicare Part D, help is on the way. In mid-June, $250 rebate checks will begin to be mailed to consumers who have reached the gap, which is commonly known as the “doughnut hole.” Consumers who reach the doughnut hole will automatically receive a one-time $250 check. People with Medicare who have Extra Help, the federal program that helps pay for prescription drugs, will not receive a rebate check.

Last week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a brochure that provides more details about the rebate. According to the brochure, subsequent mailings of the rebate checks will occur monthly throughout the year. There is no need to apply or fill out any forms, and consumers should not provide personal information to anyone who contacts them about the check. To report fraud related to the rebate, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

- From “Fighting Fraud” e-mail from Medicare Watch, Medicare Rights Center, June 03, 2010.