Scammers Target Native Americans in Montana with Fake Health Care Promises

In Montana, a disturbing scam has come to light, preying on vulnerable Native Americans. Fraudsters roamed reservations, convincing people, especially those without homes, to sign up for Affordable Care Act plans. They promised free rehab treatment at fancy facilities, often in California, and even offered transportation. But once victims arrived, they faced a different reality.

The Scam Unveiled

• Scammers pressured people into signing up, almost forcing them to comply.
• At fake treatment centers, victims' conditions were falsely reported as emergencies, making insurance companies pay for treatments that never happened or weren't needed.
• In one shocking case, over $900,000 was billed for a single person's treatment.

Exploiting System Weaknesses

• Native Americans can enroll anytime in Affordable Care Act plans, giving scammers more opportunities.
• Montana's insurance providers cover out-of-state treatments, allowing scammers in other states to bill for care they didn't provide.
• A recent report revealed significant fraud risks in a program that helps lower monthly health insurance costs, with the federal Marketplace approving coverage for nearly all fictitious applicants.

The Aftermath and Recovery

• Montana State Auditor James Brown canceled 80 fraudulent insurance sign-ups, recovering over $23.3 million.
• His office suspects 207 total enrollments, which could amount to $54.7 million in unjustified claims.
• This isn't the first time Native Americans in Montana have been targeted. In 2023, a similar Medicaid fraud scheme billed Arizona thousands of dollars for services never provided.

Warnings and Future Implications

• Brown has warned other states, especially those with large Indigenous populations, to be on the lookout for similar scams.
• Since the scheme occurred on tribal land, federal authorities will handle the charges.
• The scam could have lasting effects on insurance coverage for Montanans, possibly leading to limited out-of-state services to prevent future fraud.
• As Brown pointed out, when scammers bill thousands in fake enrollments, premiums rise, and families end up paying more for worse care.

Stay Vigilant

Montanans are advised to stay vigilant. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always double-check before signing up for any health care plans.