As the cost of health care rises, health insurance scams are becoming more common. Watch out for unlicensed insurers that offer cheap coverage but then refuse to pay claims. Also be wary of so-called "discount health plans" that are not really insurance at all, but advertise in ways that make it sound as if they are. When in doubt, contact Wisconsin's Office of the Commissioner of Insurance at (608) 266-3585 (from Madison) or (800) 236-8517 to confirm that you are working with a licensed insurer. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Don't Be a Victim of Unlicensed Insurers: This information from the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) can help you avoid the pitfall of purchasing a plan that is not licensed in the state of Wisconsin. OCI also offers a searchable directory of insurers licensed in the state of Wisconsin.
- OCI warns about a rise in fake insurance policies and what you can do to protect yourself. The OCI urges consumers to STOP before signing anything or writing a check, CALL the OCI at 1-800-236-8517, and CONFIRM that the company is licensed to do business in Wisconsin.
- The National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers more tips to protect yourself against illegal health plans (PDF). NAIC also offers Insure U, a good place to learn about health insurance options in a variety of life situations and how to shop for insurance safely.
- The FBI offers ways to protect yourself against fraud, including health care fraud: Common Fraud Schemes(link is external). Scroll down to find tips for avoiding fraud in health care and health insurance.
- Protect Yourself From Health Care Fraud(link is external): U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services lists some ways consumers can protect themselves and their loved ones from health care fraud.
Call a licensed agent at (312) 726-6565 in order to walk you through your options.
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