Although the precise method may vary, the scheme generally involves someone pretending to be from the Government, a diabetes association, or even Medicare, calling you to offer "free" diabetic supplies, such as glucose meters, diabetic test strips, or lancets.

This Web page contains information about OIG's most wanted health care fugitives. In all, the HHS-OIG is seeking more than 170 fugitives on charges related to health care fraud and abuse. Here are some of the faces of health care fraudsters.

If offered a complimentary medical service, beware! Offers of "free" medical treatments or consultations often sound appealing and legitimate. They may come in advertising, a telephone solicitation, or even at your front door.

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is a grassroots network of volunteers who work to educate seniors and other Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries on how to protect, detect, and report health care fraud.

Treat your health insurance card like your credit card. Medical identity theft is a fast-growing crime, and difficult to rectify. Medical identify theft occurs when someone steals your insurance card number to obtain prescriptions, medical services or medical supplies.

Don't throw away the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) you receive from your insurer; it could contain important clues to uncover health care fraud.