 TITLE: How Can Medical Identity Theft Occur? CONTENT: Types of Medical Identity Theft\n-------------------------------\nMedical identity theft can fall under different categories depending on who uses your information to perpetuate the fraud.\n*   **Outsider fraud** describes a scenario in which someone else uses your personal and medical information without your knowledge. The fraudster may have stolen your information themselves or bought it from someone who did.\n*   **Insider fraud** is when someone within the health care system fraudulently uses a patient's information. For example, a doctor who adds a false diagnosis to your medical record and then bills your insurance provider for the \"treatment.\"\n*   **Friendly fraud** is when you knowingly allow someone else, such as a friend or family member, to fraudulently use your information.\nWhile you never want to fall victim to any type of identity theft, medical identity theft can be particularly troublesome. Once someone has your personal and health insurance information, they may be able to:\n*   Get a medical procedure or test in your name.\n*   Use your information to buy prescription drugs and medical equipment.\n*   Make fraudulent insurance claims.\nThese can lead to the costly and time-consuming task of proving you were the victim of fraud and fixing your financial, credit, health and possibly criminal records. Even friendly fraud, which might not have financial repercussions, could be dangerous.\nIncorrect medical and insurance records can also lead to life-threatening mistakes and delays. A doctor may give (or withhold) medications or treatments based on a medical record that contains fraudulent information. Your insurance company could also deny necessary treatments or medications due to the fraudulently filed claims. END