BCBSKS Recognizes International Fraud Week
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) is recognizing Nov. 13-19 as International Fraud Awareness Week. During that time BCBSKS will be raising healthcare fraud awareness and prevention in the hopes of reducing its impact on Kansans.
Healthcare fraud affects the entire healthcare system and those who utilize it. It raises concerns for quality of care provided and inflates the true cost of care. The National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association (NHCAA) conservatively estimates that healthcare fraud costs the nation approximately $68 to $260 billion annually. To protect Kansans from fraud, BCBSKS created the special investigations unit (SIU). The unit was formed in 1984 on the suggestion of John C. McCabe, then president of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA). The mission of the SIU is to resolve claims of wrongful activity directed at healthcare dollars and to support prevention, detection, investigation and correction of fraud, waste and abuse (FWA).
Trends in fraud are constantly changing so education is key to staying ahead of scams and keeping Kansans safe.
“Our staff are diligent to further their education through webinars, use of government and law enforcement websites, and local and national conferences. These educational opportunities enable staff to keep abreast of ongoing trends and examine recent case studies,” said Tina Zimmerman, manager, BCBSKS special investigations and analytics. “The SIU works closely with other departments within the organization as well as contracted providers and members to combat fraud, waste and abuse.”
International Fraud Week was recently recognized by Laura Kelly, Governor of Kansas, Friday, Oct. 28 at a signing ceremony in the Statehouse.
If healthcare fraud, waste or abuse is suspected, contact 800-432-0216, ext. 6400 or email suspected.fraud@bcbsks.com. For tips on how to spot fraud and protect yourself read the Fall 2022 Healthy You and Healthy Living member newsletter article Steer clear of scams.
The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies.
