Medical identity theft another source for consumer concern

Identity theft can show up in a person’s life in a variety of ways, including through the health system.

A recent report from ABC’s Good Morning America noted that some identity thieves will try to use a person’s name or health insurance in order to get free medical treatment. Citing the statistics from the Federal Trade Commission, the news outlet noted that more than 300,000 people in the country fell victim to medical identity theft last year.

However, there are ways for consumers to make sure they avoid, or at least are aware of, cases of medical identity theft. One way to do so is for people to keep tabs on their credit report.

"Identify any medical debts on the report and make sure they are yours," the report from ABC said.

Consumers should also request a copy of the benefits paid out in their name through their insurance companies. Reviewing these can show whether someone has tried to piggyback on their policies.

Along with helping with medically related problems, monitoring a credit report can alert people to other forms of identity theft. For example, a report can show whether a thief has opened a credit card in a person’s name.

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