The definition of medical identity theft is the fraudulent acquisition of someone's personal information – name, Social Security number, health insurance number – for illegally obtaining medical services or devices, insurance reimbursements or prescription drugs.

 

This information is used by the thief or when stolen through an organized effort, pooled and sold to multiple organizations who will create a planned series of fraudulent transactions.

 

For the past three years, the health and medical sector has accounted for the highest percent of total hackings within an industry. The effects of medical identity theft will impact both a member’s financial to medical history.

 

Not only do medical records usually contain payment and billing information, which leaves credit card information exposed, but they will often contain sensitive data like Social Security Numbers and information that could enable thieves to obtain medical services under the victim’s identity.

 

If the perpetrator’s medical information mixes with the victim’s, the victim could receive medication to which they are allergic, or their blood type could be changed to another, putting them at risk during a medical emergency.

 

At JPK, we have the resources available to help educate organizations regarding what to do when a breach occurs. It is not a matter of if, rather, it is a matter of when. When the breach happens, whether small of large, we have the resources needed to remediate the issues quickly, cost effectively and with the assurance that your membership will be supported in the best ways possible.

 

Contact JPK Secure HealthCare Solutions today to learn more about Identity Theft, how to guard against it and what to do when there is a breach.