Ways to Keep a Thief From Getting Medical Care in Your Name -- and What to Do If It Happens

Medical identity theft happens when someone uses another person’s personal information to obtain healthcare or submit insurance claims, potentially causing both financial harm and issues with the care a patient receives if medical records are mixed. The guidance focuses on prevention steps: store health documents securely, shred old paperwork, and redact personal data from prescription bottles before disposal. It also recommends being cautious when others request medical information—ask why it’s needed and who will access it—and independently verify unexpected calls, emails and texts. The article frames medical identity theft as a form distinct from typical credit or tax-fraud schemes.