National Medicare Report Fraud Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about Medicare fraud and encouraging individuals to report suspicious activities. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the Medicare system, which provides vital health coverage to millions of Americans, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 12th annually
- Tagged as: Healthcare awareness, Fraud prevention
- What’s the hashtag?: #ReportMedicareFraudDay
- When was it founded?: 2017
- Who founded it?: The Hesch Firm, LLC, founded by attorney Joel D. Hesch
History of National Medicare Report Fraud Day
National Medicare Report Fraud Day was established by The Hesch Firm, LLC in 2017. The day was created after founding attorney Joel D. Hesch spent over 15 years working in the Department of Justice’s whistleblower reward office, where he helped obtain over $1.5 billion in recoveries from those cheating Medicare and assisted in paying out hundreds of millions in rewards to whistleblowers.
The choice of September 12th for this observance is symbolic, reflecting the need for year-round vigilance. It is strategically placed after Labor Day, a time when people may be thinking about health benefits and financial planning for the future.
Timeline
- 1965: Medicare begins under the Social Security Administration
- 2010: The inaugural observance following the Affordable Care Act’s bolstering of fraud prevention measures
- 2017: National Report Medicare Fraud Day is officially established by The Hesch Firm, LLC
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 12 | Friday |
| 2026 | September 12 | Saturday |
| 2027 | September 12 | Sunday |
| 2028 | September 12 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | September 12 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | September 12 | Thursday |
Observed
National Report Medicare Fraud Day is observed across the United States by healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and government agencies. Activities include educational seminars, webinars, and public awareness campaigns aimed at teaching people how to identify and report Medicare fraud.
Fun Facts About National Medicare Report Fraud Day
- Medicare fraud costs taxpayers billions of dollars each year.
- Joel D. Hesch created a free e-book and website to help whistleblowers properly report Medicare fraud.
- Whistleblowers who report Medicare fraud may be eligible for financial rewards.
- The FBI has uncovered Medicare fraud schemes worth billions of dollars.
- The day is part of a broader effort to protect the financial integrity of the Medicare system.
Quiz
- When is National Medicare Report Fraud Day celebrated?
- Who founded National Medicare Report Fraud Day?
- What year was National Medicare Report Fraud Day established?
- What is the purpose of National Medicare Report Fraud Day?
(Answers: 1. September 12th, 2. The Hesch Firm, LLC/Joel D. Hesch, 3. 2017, 4. To raise awareness about Medicare fraud and encourage reporting)
FAQs
What is Medicare fraud?
Medicare fraud occurs when individuals or companies deceive the Medicare system to receive money or benefits they are not entitled to. This can include billing for services not provided, upcoding, double billing, kickbacks, and identity theft.
How can I report Medicare fraud?
You can report suspected Medicare fraud by calling the Medicare hotline, contacting your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), or visiting the official Medicare fraud reporting website.
Can I receive a reward for reporting Medicare fraud?
Yes, whistleblowers who report Medicare fraud may be eligible for financial rewards under certain circumstances, particularly if the information leads to the recovery of funds.
Importance of National Medicare Report Fraud Day
National Medicare Report Fraud Day plays a crucial role in protecting the Medicare system from fraudulent activities. By raising awareness and encouraging reporting, this day helps safeguard billions of dollars in healthcare funds, ensuring that resources are available for those who truly need them. The day also empowers Medicare beneficiaries to become active participants in preventing fraud, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and efficient healthcare system.
Related
- National Healthcare Fraud Prevention Week
- World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
- National Consumer Protection Week
- International Fraud Awareness Week
- National Whistleblower Day