* Never provide your Medicare/Medicaid number (or any part of it) unless you know who you are dealing with.

* Never provide your Medicare/Medicaid number in exchange for "free" services.

* Never allow anyone, except appropriate medical professionals, to review your medical records or to recommend services.

* Never sign a blank contract from a solicitor (i.e. door-to-door sales rep).

* Never accept medical services, supplies or equipment from a telephone solicitor, a door-to-door sales rep, or from a TV or magazine ad. Only your doctor can order services, supplies or equipment for you.

* Never accept and offer for "free"medical equipment. Remember, only your physician can order medical equipment for you!

* Beware of providers who represent themselves as being part of, or endorsed by, the federal or state government, Medicare or Medicaid. None of these entities endorse products or services of any provider.

* Avoid a provider who tells you that the item or service isn't usually covered, but they know how to bill Medicare/Medicaid to get it paid.

* Never allow anyone to convince you to contact your physician requesting a service you don't need.

* Record - use a calendar or notebook, to keep records for - medical appointments, tests and supplies.

* Review every Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Medicaid Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to determine that only services and supplies that were ordered, received, and medically necessary were billed; and

*Report Any Suspicious Activities.