We recently wrote here about a series of scams plaguing our senior community. But it didn’t take long for an even newer scam to come to the forefront.
The Florida Department of Elder Affairs issued a release last week warning our seniors and their caregivers about a recent rise in DNA/genetic testing schemes.
The release cautioned older adults to be aware of companies offering free genetic testing, cancer screening or DNA testing. Often occurring at health fairs or other events, people are asked to swab their cheeks in order to get DNA samples. They are told that the test will be covered 100 percent by Medicare, and all that is needed to process the test is their Medicare number.
In another variation of the same scam, seniors are being contacted at home and being told they will be sent a testing kit. Again, they are asked for their Medicare number to process the test.
Both of these are scams. All medical testing of any kind must be ordered by your physician in connection to treatment for a specific medical problem.
If you are approached by someone who is not your physician offering to provide these tests for you, do not comply and especially do not give them your Medicare number under any circumstances.