Beware of health scams

Keep these points in mind when considering a new treatment or insurance policy.

So often on info-commercials on TV or in magazines we see the magic cure for all of our ailments.  It is very easy to fall prey to “too good to be true” information, especially when we feel under the weather to begin with. It is very easy to understand the appeal of these commercials. There is an old saying:  “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!” Unfortunately, seniors who have chronic health conditions usually are looking for some relief and fall prey to these commercials.

The best way for scientists to find out if a treatment works is through clinical trials. A Clinical Trial is similar to a research study, but may test new approaches to medicine. Always look at the clinical studies of a new medication and discuss with your physician before taking the drug. 

There are a few Health Insurance companies that target people by getting people who cannot afford insurance to be interested in their policies. The question is: “Do they deliver what they say they will?”  Remember to find out if your insurance company agent is licensed in your state.

Be wary and question what you see on the internet, in newspapers, on radio and TV.  Scam artists are trying to make a quick dollar by selling us the “miracle drugs and/or insurance.” Look for red flag in ads or promotional materials that:

  • Promise a quick or painless cure
  • Claim to be a cure for a wide range of ailments
  • Require advance payment and claim  there is a limited supply of the product
  • Claims to cure a chronic disease that has not been cured by medical science.

The Federal Trade Commission helps you spot frauds. The Food and Drug Administration protects the public by assuring the safety of prescription drugs. These two agencies work to protect all of us from health scams. The first step is always to talk to your physician. Getting the facts can help protect us from scams.

The National Institute on Aging has health and wellness information for older adults. It is a user-friendly website where you can choose to have the information read to you or read it yourself.

Always remember if a medical product or an insurance policy sounds too good to be true, it generally is!

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