Be Wary of Suspicious Requests for Medical Supplies
Please be aware that a medical supply company is sending faxes to some Aurora physicians requesting signatures and authorization for durable medical equipment and supplies that were never ordered by the physician. The requests are for patients known to the physician and the requests have been for multiple items.
We know the company calls Medicare beneficiaries, asksthe patient about his or her medical problems and gets enough information to start faxing the physician with requests for medical equipment and supplies. One request received by an Aurora physician was for 5 items, including a power lift chair. When the physician followed up with the patient, it was clear that the patient had not requested the items and did not need the items that the company was attempting to supply. Telephone solicitation of Medicare beneficiaries for medical equipment or supplies is prohibited.
This company in question is identifying itself under multiple names, including:
- Med-Care Diabetic & Medical Supplies
- Christian Medical Supplies
- Christian Diabetics.org
The company identifies its place of business as Boca Raton, Florida.
We have reported our concerns about this company to the Office of the Inspector General Fraud Hotline. If you receive anything from this company, or if any of your patients ask about this company, please contact your business unit’s compliance officer.
While physicians may receive many requests for authorization for items that are legitimate and necessary, please be sure to read all requests for authorization of medical equipment and supplies that you receive before you sign to ensure you agree. The physician signature on the form is an attestation as to the medical necessity of the item – you want to be certain that you are comfortable with what you are signing.
If you have any questions about this or other compliance related issues, please contact the Compliance Department. A listing of compliance officers can be found by clicking [here].