SLATER HOSTS MEDICARE AND MEDICAID FRAUD AWARENESS EVENT FOR SENIORS

Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) recently partnered with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to host a Medicare and Medicaid Fraud Awareness event for local seniors at the Jefferson Village Community Room. The educational program provided attendees with practical tools to recognize scams, safeguard their personal information and understand how to report suspected fraud.

The event focused on the growing number of scams targeting older adults through phone calls, emails, mail and in-person solicitations. CMS representatives discussed common warning signs of Medicare and Medicaid fraud, identity theft prevention and resources available to help seniors protect themselves and their health care benefits.

“Unfortunately, scammers continue to target our seniors, often taking advantage of trust and vulnerability,” said Slater. “Knowledge is one of the strongest tools we have to fight fraud. I want to thank everyone who attended this important event and our partners at CMS for sharing their expertise and empowering residents with the information they need to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Jennie Menton, chairman of Yorktown Senior Advisory Board, said: “Thank you, Assemblyman Slater, for bringing this informative program to the district. Senior citizens are a target for scammers, and knowing what to look for and how to report an issue is the best way to protect ourselves.”

Deborah Merced, outreach specialist, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, said: “Informing the public about how they can prevent Medicare fraud is incredibly important. CMS is on the offensive, and fraudsters are on notice. For more information, visit medicare.gov/fraud.”

Attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, learn about current scam tactics and receive educational materials outlining best practices for protecting their Medicare and Medicaid information. The event also highlighted the importance of reporting suspicious activity to help prevent fraud from impacting others in the community.

Due to the overwhelming success and strong community turnout for this presentation, Slater has partnered with the Putnam County Office for Senior Resources to expand these educational opportunities to seniors throughout the county. Through this collaboration, presentations will be offered as part of the programming at Putnam County’s Friendship Centers, providing residents with valuable information, resources and tools to help them stay informed, safe and connected.

“Our office is committed to connecting residents with resources that improve their quality of life,” Slater added. “Whether it's helping seniors navigate government services or providing information to prevent financial fraud, we’re proud to host programs that make a real difference.”