Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program & Medicare Patrol

How does medical identity theft really affect you? Here are just a few examples.

- False or missed diagnoses
- Incorrect lab results
- Bills for services you didn't receive
- Denied services or prescriptions

Medicare fraud is a BIG deal. Protect yourself by learning more here: smpresource.org/you-can-help.

For the first time ever, Medicare will unlock breakthrough weight-loss medications for just $50 a month, giving millions of seniors access to life-changing treatments previously out of reach. Starting July 1, 2026, the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program means affordable innovation is finally within reach for eligible people with Medicare Part D.

Remember, if you qualify, Medicare Part B also covers obesity screenings and behavioral counseling. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your options for weight loss and better health!

You have a right to emergency medical care regardless of your insurance status or ability to pay. ER services are typically provided when you have a medical condition that requires immediate action, such as an injury or sudden illness. You don't need a referral for emergency care, and your plan cannot require you to see in-network providers for emergency care.

Contact SHIIP-SMP if you have been denied coverage of emergency care and need assistance with an appeal. Call us at 1-800-351-4664, or visit shiip.iowa.gov to find a SHIIP-SMP sponsor site near you.

Medicare Fraud Prevention Week (MFPW) is less than one month away! Medicare Fraud Prevention Week focuses on the actions everyone can take to prevent Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

Learn how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from Medicare fraud by joining the SMP June 1-5 to celebrate the week!

Learn more at: https://shiip.iowa.gov/prevent-fraud/medicare-fraud-spotlight-fraud-prevention-week.

If you open a letter with a plastic Medicare card in it, don't "activate it." This is a scam. Medicare is not sending plastic Medicare cards. Report this to SHIIP/SMP at 1-800-351-4664.

The force is strong with the Senior Medicare Patrol.

Sign up to receive the Iowa SHIIP/SMP quarterly e-newsletter!

Stay updated on what's new in Medicare, tips on saving money on your plans and prescriptions, and how to protect yourself from current Medicare scams and fraud. (It only comes out 4 times a year - so we won't fill your inbox. The next one is coming out April 30th!)

(https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/IACIO/subscriber/new?topic_id=IACIO_1430)

State of Iowa For SMS: Message and data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to cancel. To view terms and conditions, visit https://lnks.gd/2/rBWh8v. Message frequency may vary.

Retire with peace of mind and a plan for Medicare coverage!

You can find information and resources on the SHIIP/SMP website at: https://shiip.iowa.gov/get-started/getting-ready-retire

In-person Welcome to Medicare Seminars are also hosted year-round across the state. You can find an upcoming seminar near you here: https://shiip.iowa.gov/find-resources/seminars

Not sure where to start? Give us a call at 1-800-351-4664

SCAM ALERT: Plastic Medicare cards are being sent to beneficiaries. THESE ARE FAKE! Once they are received, individuals are asked to provide their personal information. Medicare will never ask for personal information, and Medicare cards are only paper.

Spread the word - the more we know what to look out for, the better we can protect ourselves and each other!