According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG), scammers are targeting vulnerable Native Americans. The scams involve trafficking, health care, and behavioral health outpatient treatment centers.
Native Americans Seeking Health Support Referred to Fake Sober Living Homes
These scammers specifically target vulnerable Native Americans by setting up phony sober living homes that claim to provide addiction treatment and support. However, these homes are actually fronts for illegal activities that pose a risk to Native Americans seeking help. In addition, Native Americans are falling victim to schemes involving trafficking and healthcare fraud. In these cases, perpetrators masquerade as healthcare providers, according to the OIG. The scammers offer fake medical services or treatments, while at the same time stealing personal information and medical identities. Then, they submit fraudulent bill for services that were never provided.
Scams Use Outpatient Treatment Centers to Commit Health Care Fraud
According to the Inspector General, another method employed by these schemes involves the recruitment of Native Americans by employees of Outpatient Treatment Centers, or OTCs. In these cases, the OTCs are often working for fraudulent providers, outside of Native American reservations. These employees/recruiters entice prospects by offering food, cash incentives, money for rent, and other gifts. After an intake process with a licensed Behavioral Health Professional specializing in substance abuse counseling, the suspect company bills Medicaid for services that do not align with the actual time spent.
Inspector General’s Message to Native Americans: Be Vigilant
The Inspector General says it is important to be vigilant and protect yourself from these deceptive schemes. If you have any information regarding these schemes, you can contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) or visit tips.hhs.gov.
According to the Inspector General, if you suspect fraud you can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
