Attorney General’s office warns about health insurance enrollment scams | News
Harrisburg, Pa. — Pa. Attorney General Dave Sunday has issued a warning to Pennsylvanians who are shopping for health insurance during the open enrollment period about potential scams. According to the Office of Attorney General, fake websites are representing themselves as official online insurance marketplaces.
These fraudulent websites are most likely scams looking to collect personal information and payments.
Consumers are also warned about unofficial websites that may be selling actual plans, but the plans may not provide adequate coverage.
”Scammers today try to attach their scams to trending events and happenings, making them more believable and increasing their chances of success,” Attorney General Sunday said. “If you are using the marketplace to shop for a new health insurance plan this year, be sure you are practicing due diligence. Do not let scammers prevent you from accessing necessary medical care.”
Pennie is Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, utilized by about 500,000 families in the Commonwealth.
Plans advertised on websites other than Pennie may not comply with federal requirements for marketplace health insurance plans. Such plans often place strict limits on the care that consumers can receive, leaving consumers responsible for large out-of-pocket costs.
Individuals with questions about the Pennie marketplace application, enrollment process, or other open enrollment questions can contact Pennie directly online at pennie.com or by phone at 1-844-844-8040. Pennie can also connect users with a certified Pennie assistant in their area for additional in-person application support.
Pennsylvanians are also asked to be wary of calls and emails received during the open enrollment season. Scammers may claim to have limited-time offers or claim to provide lower monthly costs through their enrollment process. Never provide personal information to unknown callers or through email.
Pennsylvanians who believe they may have been a victim of a health insurance scam are encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Health Care Section at 1-877-888-4877 or by filing a complaint online.
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