Illinois SMP Fraud Alert logo
November 4, 2019
Illinois SMP Releases New Opioid Tip Sheets
The opioid epidemic has reached the older adult population. This past month the Illinois SMP released an opioid tip sheet to distribute throughout the state. You can print off the English version here and the Spanish version here.

Remember opioid fraud and abuse occurs when:
  • Medicare beneficiaries are over-prescribed medications.
  • Pharmacies are involved in drug diversion which is a transfer of any legally prescribed controlled substance from the individual for whom it was prescribed to another person for any illicit use.
  • Medicare is billed for medications not prescribed.
  • Medicare is billed for medications not received.

Protect yourself and others by:
  • Discussing non-opioid alternatives for treating chronic pain with your provider.
  • Properly disposing of opioid medications after treatment is finished. There are local drug take back locations to dispose of unused medications.
  • To prevent misuse and abuse, do not share your prescription drugs with others.

The Illinois SMP is here to offer assistance if you feel your Medicare number has been affected in a fraud scheme related to opioid diversion, please call the Illinois SMP at AgeOptions at (800)699-9043.
Illinois SMP Coordinator Travis Trumitch featured in National NPR Article
Illinois Senior Medicare Patrol Coordinator Travis Trumitch was interviewed by Victoria Knight from Kaiser Health News on phone scams targeting older adults. The article was published on NPR.Org. You can read the whole story from NPR here.

Always remember to never give your Medicare number to someone you do not know, especially someone who calls on the phone, comes to the door, or offers “free” services in exchange for your Medicare number. “Free” services do not require your Medicare number! Always work with your Doctor.

If you or someone you know have received one of these phone calls or received ay unnecessary braces, you can report this with the Illinois SMP at AgeOptions at (800)699-9043.
Have a wonderful week!

Travis Trumitch
travis.trumitch@ageoptions.org
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This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MPPG0036, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy.
The Illinois SMP at AgeOptions partners with agencies across the state to empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse through outreach, counseling, and education.

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