Protect Your Medicare.
Spot Fraud.
Get Help You Can Trust.
Medicare fraud is more common than you think — but you're not alone. Indiana Senior Medicare Patrol helps you spot it, stop it, and report it.
What Is Indiana Senior Medicare Patrol?
The Indiana Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) helps Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers, and families prevent, detect, and report healthcare fraud, errors, and abuse — so you can protect yourself and your Medicare.
Administered by the Indiana Association of Area Agencies on Aging (IAAAA), Indiana SMP is a federally funded, statewide program supported by trained staff and dedicated volunteers — many of whom are Medicare beneficiaries themselves — working in communities across Indiana.
As a Medicare beneficiary, you have the right to recognize and prevent fraud. We give you the knowledge and support to identify common scams, safeguard your personal information, review your statements, and take action when something doesn't look right. By helping individuals take action, Indiana SMP not only protects you — it helps protect Medicare for future generations.
We can help you:
- Review and understand Medicare statements
- Identify questionable charges
- Report suspected fraud
- Learn how to prevent scams before they happen
Learn how SMP volunteers make a difference in their communities
Fraud Happens More Than You Think — And You're Not Alone
Scams are getting more sophisticated, and they can happen to anyone — even people who are careful, informed, and experienced. The good news? There are simple steps you can take to protect yourself, and we're here to help every step of the way.
If you've ever:
- Answered a call you weren't sure about
- Seen a charge you didn't recognize on a Medicare statement
- Felt unsure reading your Medicare Summary Notice
- Experienced a data breach of your personal health information
You're not alone, and it's not your fault. Start with these trusted tools and resources.
10 Steps to Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud
Simple, practical steps to spot scams and protect your information. Our easy-to-follow guide gives you actionable tools you can start using today to safeguard your Medicare benefits.
Three Common Medicare Scams
How to Read Your Medicare Statement
Most people don't review their Medicare statements — and that's exactly what scammers count on. Taking a few minutes to check yours can help you catch errors, spot fraud, and stop it from continuing. If you're on Original Medicare, you can also set up an online account to review claims as they are processed.
Common COVID-19 Medicare Scams to Watch For
Know the Red Flags
Many scams start with a phone call — and sometimes people answer simply because they don't want to miss something important. But not every call deserves an answer. Knowing the warning signs can protect you before it's too late.
Quick Phone Call Tips
- Let unknown numbers go to voicemail
- Return calls only to trusted numbers you recognize
- Talk with family, caregivers, or trusted organizations before responding
- Never give out your Medicare number over the phone
Medicare Will NEVER:
- Ask for your Medicare number over the phone, text, or email
- Call to sell (or say it's a free program) medical supplies or equipment
- Pressure you to act quickly
If something feels urgent or suspicious — pause and verify before you do anything.
Supporting Someone on Medicare? You're Not Alone.
Caring for someone on Medicare — whether as a family member, caregiver, or professional — often means helping manage their healthcare and protecting them from scams, errors, and fraud.
Indiana SMP isn't just here for Medicare beneficiaries — we're also here for you, with tools and guidance to help keep the people you care for safe, informed, and protected. Whether you're reviewing a statement, questioning a charge, or helping screen phone calls, we're here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Set Up Call Screening
Help them screen unknown callers. Create a "call me first" rule before responding to unfamiliar numbers.
Review Statements Together
Go through Medicare statements together and look for anything unusual, like charges for services they didn't receive.
Set Up Medicare.gov Account
Create an online account so you can review Medicare claims as they are processed — catch issues early.
Connect with IN SMP
Have a question or want a second opinion? Indiana SMP can help caregivers and family members too.
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone
Whether you think you've been a victim of Medicare fraud, have a question, or just want a second opinion — Indiana SMP is here to help. Our staff and volunteers are ready to listen.
