New Law Increases Penalties for Fraudsters
A new law taking effect in Oklahoma on November 1st, 2024, aims to strengthen protections for elderly residents from Medicare fraud. House Bill 3668, also known as the Miller Bill, increases the penalties for those who commit Medicaid and Medicare fraud.
The importance of this legislation is underscored by the story of Nancy Vitali. A routine check of her Medicare benefits revealed a disturbing truth: she had been the victim of fraud.
Charges for medical equipment, specifically urinary catheters, appeared on her account despite her never needing them. This discovery prompted Vitali to report the incident, highlighting the vulnerability of seniors to such scams.
“Money that’s supposed to be going to care of senior citizens is going into the pockets of cheaters and crooks,” Vitali lamented.
Vitali’s experience is far from unique. According to the senior Medicare patrol, Medicare fraud costs the system an estimated $60 billion annually. This alarming statistic underscores the need for stricter penalties to deter such crimes.
Roxanne King of Life Senior Services applauds the new law. She emphasizes the challenges faced by seniors who may not know how to address suspected fraud or exploitation.
“A lot of times, they don’t know where to go,” King explains.
Nancy Vitali encourages a proactive approach. She urges everyone to educate seniors about Medicare fraud and to emphasize the importance of following up on suspicious activity. By working together, Oklahomans can create a safer environment for their elderly population.
The Miller Bill serves as a significant step forward in protecting Oklahoma’s seniors from financial exploitation. Increased penalties send a clear message to potential criminals, while raising awareness empowers seniors to safeguard their well-being.
