Name: Doc Lamunyon E-mail:Glamunyon@aol.com Subject: VA warns of prescription scam - Army Times Article
October 19, 2005
VA warns of prescription scam
By Karen Jowers Times staff writer
Department of Veterans Affairs officials are warning veterans and their family members about a new fraud tactic that is making the rounds. Veterans have reported getting calls from people identifying themselves as part of the “Patient Care Group” and claiming that VA prescriptions are now being dispensed through them.
Veterans are told they must provide credit card information if they want to continue receiving their prescriptions, according to a fraud alert issued by the VA Midwest Health Care Network.
VA has not changed its process for receiving and dispensing prescriptions, the alert states. Veterans should contact their local VA medical facility if they have questions about VA prescriptions or services.
Fraud alerts have been issued through VA hospitals nationwide warning that no one connected with the VA would call a veteran and ask for a credit card number for any reason.
While the scam seems to be focused on the Midwest, it could happen anywhere. Veterans and their family members, especially older veterans who may not be as cautious with such phone calls, should remain vigilant, a VA official said.
The Federal Trade Commission advises consumers to refuse to give their credit card numbers or other personal information over the telephone unless they have initiated the phone call and are confident they are dealing with a reputable business. Anyone who has given this information to such a caller, and is concerned about possible illegal use of their personal data, should contact their credit card company and the FTC at www.ftc.gov to report the possible fraud.
