With the increasing number of Medicare-related offers, it’s essential to distinguish between legitimate benefits and potential scams. A Medicare Flex Card is one such offer that has caught the attention of many beneficiaries. But how do you know if the offer is genuine? This guide will walk you through the crucial steps to verify the legitimacy of a Medicare Flex Card offer, ensuring you can make informed decisions about your healthcare benefits.

Medicare flex cards and how they work

Medicare Flex Cards are prepaid debit cards that can be used for health and wellness benefits like hearing, vision, dental care, and more. These cards are exclusive to Medicare Advantage plans, meaning they are not available through Original Medicare. Additionally, not all Medicare Advantage plans include this benefit.

To find out if your current Medicare Advantage plan offers a Flex Card, review the plan documents you received when you enrolled. You can also call the number on the back of your member ID card to speak with a plan representative.

If your plan doesn’t offer a Flex Card and you’re interested in obtaining one, consider looking for a Medicare Advantage plan that includes Flex Cards when exploring your coverage options.

How Medicare Flex Card Scams Work

Like many types of fraud, Medicare Flex Card scams revolve around obtaining your personal information or tricking you into paying for fake offers. Scammers typically achieve this through fake advertisements, fraudulent phone calls, or emails. Be cautious if anyone requests your:

• Social Security number
• Credit card number
• Bank account information
• Medicare account number

Common Medicare Flex Card Scams

Medicare Flex Cards can be a valuable benefit for those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. Their appeal makes them an attractive target for scammers, who may use them as a lure for unsuspecting beneficiaries.

One common scam involves fake advertisements that urge people to “apply” for a Flex Card through insecure websites or by calling a fraudulent phone number. Another tactic involves someone posing as a Medicare representative who calls or emails, offering a Flex Card as an additional benefit. These scammers will then ask for personal information or payment to send the card to your home or add it to your plan.

Warning Signs and How to Protect Yourself

The best way to protect yourself from Medicare Flex Card scams is by staying informed. Understanding what a Flex Card is, how it works, and common scamming techniques will equip you with the knowledge you need to avoid falling victim. Here are some key points to remember:

• Medicare Representatives Will Never Call You
  Never give your personal information to someone claiming to be a Medicare representative discussing a Flex Card. Medicare representatives will not contact you directly about your plan benefits. Additionally, remember that Original Medicare does not offer a Flex Card—this benefit is available only through private Medicare Advantage plans.
• Medicare Flex Cards Cannot Be Purchased
  Be wary of anyone trying to sell you a Medicare Flex Card. Flex Cards are not sold independently—they are a benefit provided by certain insurance plans, and some cards may have specific eligibility criteria.
• Verify the Identity of Your Medicare Advantage Representative
  If you have a Medicare Advantage plan and someone from your insurance company contacts you about a Flex Card, hang up and call the number on your Medicare ID card to ensure you’re speaking with a legitimate representative.
• Understand the Psychology of Scamming
  Scammers often use similar psychological tactics, such as creating a sense of urgency with scare tactics to pressure you into making quick decisions. They may also try to overwhelm you with fake, alarming information and exploit the isolation that some older adults may experience.

By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from falling victim to Medicare Flex Card scams.

Need help? Call Health Plans in Oregon: 503-928-6918. Our assistance is at no cost to you.