Scam Alert: Beware of Fake Health Tests for Student Athletes

Health scams targeting parents and caregivers are on the rise, with fraudsters preying on fears about sudden cardiac arrest to push unnecessary tests and bill insurers for fake services. The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General has issued a consumer alert warning about these scams, which often target students, athletes, and athletic programs.

One recent case involved a health care fraud scheme that resulted in $89 million in fraudulent charges for cardiovascular testing performed on college campuses. These tests were marketed to student athletes even though they were not medically necessary. The scammers typically offer “free” or low-cost heart screenings, including electrocardiograms and echocardiograms, in settings that appear trustworthy, such as schools, athletic events, and community programs.

It’s important for parents to be cautious and ask questions before agreeing to any test. Legitimate screenings should be ordered by a doctor, covered by insurance, and performed by a licensed medical professional. Parents should also be wary of providers who pressure them to act quickly, ask for insurance information upfront, or offer incentives like cash or gift cards.

If an offer for a free health screening comes through your child’s school or athletic program, it’s essential to confirm directly with the institution and your family doctor before providing any insurance details. Suspected health care fraud can be reported to the HHS-OIG Hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS or TIPS.HHS.GOV.

In addition to health scams, there are other prevalent scams to watch out for, such as pet-related scams and job phishing schemes. Pet lovers should be cautious of scammers using fake emergencies involving pets to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information. Similarly, job seekers should be wary of emails impersonating FIFA and offering World Cup-related jobs, as these could be phishing attempts to steal personal information.

Overall, staying informed about common types of scams and taking proactive steps to protect yourself can help reduce the risk of falling victim to fraud. By being skeptical of unsolicited messages, verifying requests from organizations, and reporting any suspicious activity, you can safeguard your finances and personal information. Remember to regularly review your financial statements, credit reports, and online security measures to stay one step ahead of scammers.