Who Cares

Sources of Information About 

Health Care Products and Services

Federal Trade Commission 1–877–FTC–HELP (1–877–382–4357) ftc.gov/health

C

Introduction

With so many sources of health information at your fingertips — many 

of them online — it can be tough to tell fact from fiction, or useful 

health products and services from those that don’t work or aren’t safe. 

The FTC has created this booklet to help you find reliable sources of 

information on health topics important to you, whether you’re an older 

consumer or a family member, caregiver, or friend. You can:

z find links to agencies and organizations that care about topics 

like generic drugs, hormone therapy, caregiving, surgery to 

improve vision, alternative medicine, hearing aids, Medicare 

fraud, and medical ID theft;

z learn how to spot misleading and deceptive claims; and

z find out who you can contact to ask questions, enlist help, 

or speak up if you think a health product or service isn’t living 

up to its promises. 

Just remember: Among the best sources of health information is someone you can meet face-to-face. Talk about all of your health-related 

decisions with your doctors and other trusted health care providers.
D 

If your typical search for health information consists of typing a topic into a search 

engine, you’re not alone. But you’re also not guaranteed quality results. The websites 

that top your search list may not be up-to-date or reliable. Next time, consider starting with sources you can trust. Two great options: MedlinePlus and Healthfinder.gov.

z MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov) — Look up a condition or disease at 

MedlinePlus, and you’ll find a page organized to make it easy to find the 

information you’re looking for. Sponsored by the National Library of 

Medicine — part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) — the website 

draws from the Library of Medicine, NIH, other government agencies, and 

health-related organizations. Other MedlinePlus features include a drug and 

supplement look-up, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, and current health 

news headlines and links.

z Healthfinder.gov (healthfinder.gov) — Another one-stop-shop for finding 

reliable health information online, Healthfinder.gov draws on more than 

1,600 government and non-profit organizations to point you to current 

information. The site — a product of the Office of Disease Prevention 

and Health Promotion in the Department of Health and Human Services 

(HHS) — also offers consumer health guides, recent health news by topic, 

and a directory of health-related organizations. 

When it comes to specific websites, the FTC suggests looking for:

z Government websites. Sites ending in .gov, such as the websites for the 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at cdc.gov, Centers 

for Medicare and Medicaid Services at medicare.gov, Food and Drug 

Administration (FDA) at www.fda.gov/consumer, National Cancer Institute 

at cancer.gov, National Institute on Aging at www.nia.nih.gov, and National 

Women’s Health Information Center at womenshealth.gov, are produced 

by agencies of the federal government and generally reflect the most recent 

research and information.

z University or medical school websites, with web addresses ending in .edu, 

or sites for well-known, trusted health facilities.

z Websites for not-for-profit groups that focus on research and teaching the 

public about specific diseases or conditions. These websites typically end 

in .org, but keep in mind that “.org” doesn’t guarantee a site is reputable. 

Scammers may set up bogus .org sites to rip off consumers.

 How to Find Health Information Online
E

Table of Contents

Care and Services

Alternative and Complementary Treatments....................................................................... 1

Assisted Living and Nursing Homes..................................................................................... 2

Hiring Caregivers..................................................................................................................... 3

Hormone Therapies................................................................................................................ 4

Lasik and Other Vision-Correcting Surgeries ..................................................................... 5

Health Care Documents......................................................................................................... 6

Pills and Products

Buying Prescription Drugs Online........................................................................................ 7

Dietary Supplements............................................................................................................... 8

Generic Drugs and Switching Prescriptions ........................................................................ 9

At-Home Genetic Tests........................................................................................................ 10

Vision Prescription Portability ............................................................................................ 11

Hearing Aids.......................................................................................................................... 12

Personal Emergency Response Systems.............................................................................. 13 

Weight Loss Promises........................................................................................................... 14

Scams and Frauds

Medical ID Theft................................................................................................................... 15

Medicare Fraud ...................................................................................................................... 16

Medicare Part D Plans.......................................................................................................... 17

Miracle Cures......................................................................................................................... 18

Prescription Assistance Programs ....................................................................................... 19

How to File a Complaint ..................................................................................................... 20
F 
1

National Center for 

Complementary and 

Alternative Medicine 

nccam.nih.gov

1-888-644-6226 

(TTY: 1-866-464-3615) 

National Cancer Institute

cancer.gov/cam

1-800-422-6237 

(TTY: 1-800-332-8615)

American Cancer Society

cancer.org

1-800-227-2345 

(TTY: 1-866-228-4327)

Clinical Trials

ClinicalTrials.gov

clinicaltrials.gov

National Cancer Institute

cancer.gov/clinicaltrials

1-800-422-6237 

(TTY: 1-800-332-8615)

FDA

Office of Special Health 

Issues

www.fda.gov

1-800-216-7331

Care & Services

Alternative and Complementary Treatments

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

Find links to more 

information on 

alternative and 

complementary 

medicine at 

MedlinePlus.gov

and Healthfinder.gov. 

My brother has cancer and is looking into alternative 

treatments. He has seen ads for a clinic that claims an 

amazing success rate using unconventional approaches. 

Should he believe them? 

Unconventional treatments for cancer or any other disease can sound tempting 

when you’re hoping for a cure. But researchers don’t know how safe or effective many of them are. Many have proven ineffective and even harmful; some 

haven’t undergone rigorous scientific testing at all. 

Still, some types of complementary therapy — therapy used with, not instead 

of, conventional medicine — can be useful. Talk to your doctor about any 

treatment you’re considering. Besides telling you how safe or worthwhile the 

treatment might be, your doctor can let you know whether it could interfere 

with other medications and treatments you’re getting. And before you believe 

promises that an alternative or complementary treatment works, ask for a copy 

of any studies that prove it. Then ask a knowledgeable doctor, pharmacist, or 

other health care professional to review them. Take testimonials from “real 

people” with a shaker-full of salt. The testimonials could be embellished or even 

made up, and those “real people” could be actors, paid to read lines. Learn more 

from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and 

the National Cancer Institute.

If you’re considering treatment at a clinic that’s far from home or requires an 

extended stay, check it out with your doctor. Some clinics offer effective treatments, but others prescribe untested, unapproved “cures” that don’t work and 

may even be dangerous. Sometimes, health care providers who work there 

are unlicensed or lack basic credentials. For information on a hospital, clinic, 

or treatment center, contact the health authorities where it’s located. If it’s in 

another country, contact that government’s health authority to make sure the 

facility is properly licensed and equipped to handle the procedures involved. 

Patients who want to try an experimental treatment should talk to their doctor 

about how they might enroll in a clinical study. For information on both federally and privately supported clinical trials, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. You also can 

learn about clinical trials — and when patients may take investigational drugs 

outside of a trial — at the Office of Special Health Issues on the FDA website.
2 

National Clearinghouse 

for Long-Term Care 

Information

www.longtermcare.gov

Medicare

medicare.gov

1-800-633-4227

(TTY: 1-877-486-2048)

Finding a Facility

Your Area Agency 

on Aging

eldercare.gov

1-800-677-1116

(TRS: 1-800-677-1116)

Medicare’s Nursing 

Home Compare

medicare.gov/nhcompare

American Association 

of Homes and Services 

for the Aging

aahsa.org

Assisted Living 

Federation of America

alfa.org

Senior Housing Locator

seniorhousinglocator.org

American Health 

Care Association/

National Center 

for Assisted Living 

longtermcareliving.com

 Assisted Living and Nursing Homes 

Who Cares?

My dad has lived alone for awhile. Lately, he’s had trouble with 

basic activities like bathing and dressing. I think an assistedliving facility might be a good option for him, but I don’t know 

much about them. Where do I start? 

When you realize a parent or loved one needs more help than you can give, you 

may have to make some big decisions in a short time. Sometimes, with the help 

of a caregiver, an older person can continue to live at home (for more on caregivers, see page 3). But you may find that an assisted-living facility or nursing 

home is the best fit. Assisted living allows residents to maintain independence, 

living in apartments but getting help with daily activities. Nursing homes offer a 

higher level of care and are best for patients who need regular nursing attention 

and medical care. For an overview of long-term care options, visit the Medicare 

website and look for Long-Term Care.

Choosing the right facility takes research. Ask family, friends, and health care 

providers for recommendations, as well as your local Area Agency on Aging 

(AAA). Your AAA also should know about other resources for eldercare 

services and caregiver support in your community. To find and compare 

Medicare- and Medicaid-certified nursing homes, use Medicare’s online 

Nursing Home Compare tool. 

After you narrow your options, visit some facilities to ask questions and get a 

feel for each place. The sources in the list on the left are good places to start. For 

example, the Assisted Living Federation of America offers a consumer checklist, 

and the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging offers 

information on what to look for when touring a nursing home.

Once you’ve chosen a facility, make sure you know its complaint procedure 

policy and how to have the care plan reviewed in case you have concerns 

about the level or quality of care.

Internet tip:

Get help resolving an issue with a long-term care facility by finding 

a long-term care ombudsman in your state at ltcombudsman.org.
3

My mom needs more care than my siblings and I can manage. 

To complicate matters, I live in another state. Our mom 

wants to stay in her home, but we’ll need to hire someone 

to help her. Where should we start?

Caring for a parent, spouse, or someone else you love can be a tough balancing 

act. Help from home health workers is one way to make it work. But before 

you hire someone, figure out what services you need, and what services you can 

afford. For an overview of home health care services available and advice on 

how to find a qualified and trustworthy home care provider, visit the websites 

for the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, and the Visiting 

Nurse Associations of America. To find out about specific services and agencies 

in a particular community, call your local Area Agency on Aging. You also can 

use Medicare’s Home Health Compare tool at the Medicare website to find 

Medicare-certified home health care agencies. For the average cost of home 

health aides and other care in an area, visit the National Clearinghouse for 

Long-Term Care Information. 

Long-distance caregivers may face added challenges. To help, the National 

Institute on Aging created “So Far Away: Twenty Questions for Long-Distance 

Caregivers,” which you can download or order at the institute’s website. 

Depending on your financial situation, you might consider hiring a local care 

manager to coordinate your loved one’s care. Cost and services vary. Visit the 

National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers website to learn 

more. 

Whether you plan to hire a caregiver or take that job on yourself, other useful resources include the Family Caregiver Alliance and AARP’s Caregiving 

page. For information on caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, visit 

the Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center at the website of the 

National Institute on Aging.

Hiring Caregivers

Who Cares?

Your Area Agency on 

Aging

eldercare.gov

1-800-677-1116

(TRS: 1-800-677-1116)

National Institute on 

Aging

www.nia.nih.gov

1-800-222-2225

(TTY: 1-800-222-4225)

National Clearinghouse 

for Long-Term Care 

Information

www.longtermcare.gov

Family Caregiver 

Alliance

caregiver.org

AARP

aarp.org/family

1-888-687-2277

Finding a Caregiver

Medicare’s Home Health 

Compare

medicare.gov/

HHCompare

National Association for 

Home Care and Hospice

nahc.org

Visiting Nurse 

Associations of America

vnaa.org

National Association of 

Professional Geriatric 

Care Managers

caremanager.org

Internet tip:

As you think about hiring someone to care for a loved one, it’s 

a good time to learn how to recognize the signs of elder abuse. 

Visit the National Center on Elder Abuse at ncea.aoa.gov.
4 

MHT and Menopause

National Institute on 

Aging

www.nia.nih.gov

1-800-222-2225

(TTY: 1-800-222-4225)

NIH

nih.gov/PHTindex.htm

National Women’s Health 

Information Center

4woman.gov/menopause

1-800-994-9662

(TTY: 1-888-220-5446)

Bio-identical Hormones

FDA

Office of Women’s Health

www.fda.gov/womens

1-800-216-7331

National Center for 

Complementary and 

Alternative Medicine

nccam.nih.gov

1-888-644-6226

(TTY: 1-866-464-3615) 

Other Hormone Therapy

National Institute on 

Aging

www.nia.nih.gov

1-800-222-2225

(TTY: 1-800-222-4225)

I’ve been having hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and other 

symptoms my doctor says are signs of menopause. I’ve 

heard menopausal hormone therapy might help, but also 

that it may be risky. What do I need to know?

Menopause is a natural process that happens as a woman gets older. The amount 

of estrogen and progesterone her body produces begins to fluctuate and then 

drop. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), once known as hormone replacement therapy, involves taking some of these hormones to keep symptoms of 

menopause — like hot flashes — under control. 

Though MHT has been used for decades and praised for added health benefits 

like lowering a woman’s risk for osteoporosis and colorectal cancer, recent research has uncovered a more complicated picture. Scientists now know it matters 

when and how long you take MHT. Studies have shown that for some women, 

using MHT might increase the risk for blood clots, heart attack, stroke, and 

breast cancer. For more on benefits and risks of MHT, talk to your doctor and 

visit the NIH website. If you and your doctor decide that menopausal hormone 

therapy is a good idea, the FDA recommends the smallest dose for the shortest 

time possible. 

You may hear about “natural hormones” or “bio-identical hormones,” made by 

pharmacists and sometimes advertised as a “natural, safer alternative” to MHT. 

Be cautious. The FDA says there’s no credible scientific evidence to support the 

claims, or the safety or effectiveness of these products. For more information, 

visit the FDA website.

MHT isn’t the only type of hormone therapy. “Anti-aging” hormone therapies 

aimed at both men and women are based on the same idea — an otherwise 

healthy person taking a specific hormone that naturally declines with age. 

Supporters of these hormone therapies claim benefits like improved energy, 

strength, and immunity, an increase in muscle, and a decrease in fat. Examples 

include Human Growth Hormone (HGH), melatonin, Dehydroepiandrosterone 

(DHEA), and testosterone. But while research on these hormones is ongoing, 

scientists don’t yet know what the effects may be. The National Institute on 

Aging warns that so far, studies haven’t proven any influence on the aging 

process, and each therapy may carry significant risks. To learn more, visit the 

NIA website and read “Can We Prevent Aging? Tips from the National Institute 

on Aging.”

 Hormone Therapies

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

For an 

overview of 

menopause, 

read “Menopause: 

Time for a Change” at 

www.nia.nih.gov.
5

I’ve worn glasses for 20 years but I’d love to stop. I’ve heard 

about Lasik from friends, and I’ve seen ads that promise 

20/20 vision. What do I need to know? 

Millions of people have had Lasik eye surgery to correct their vision, 

and studies show that most people are satisfied with their results. Still, Lasik has 

risks and possible side effects that can be serious. 

Lasik and other vision-correcting surgeries reshape your cornea to refocus light 

entering your eye. There’s no upper age-limit for the surgery, though an age-related 

eye condition like cataracts can make you a bad candidate for Lasik. But so can factors not tied to your age, like thin corneas. Bad candidates of all ages are much more 

likely to experience side effects from Lasik, including chronically dry eyes and visual 

distortions, like double vision or seeing halos around lights. Complications can be 

temporary, but sometimes they’re permanent and debilitating. For more on what you 

should know about Lasik, visit the FDA website and talk to your ophthalmologist. 

As for promises of 20/20 vision — no doctor can make that guarantee. Besides, 

20/20 vision still can be flawed vision. And even when your distance vision is corrected, you’re likely to need reading glasses when you’re over 45. Lasik is just one of 

several procedures that could improve your vision, and it may not be the best choice 

for you. Your doctor can help you determine which procedure, if any, is right for 

you. For an overview, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s International 

Society of Refractive Surgery website. Most insurance companies won’t cover these 

procedures.

Cataract Surgery

My vision is blurry, which makes it hard for me to drive after dark. My doctor says I have 

cataracts and removing them should fix the problem. I saw an ad for a medical center that 

says it does risk-free cataract surgery and guarantees clear vision. Should I believe it?

Cataracts, a clouding of the lenses that can lead to blurry vision, are a normal part 

of aging. Usually, they develop over time and don’t have to be dealt with until they 

interfere with your normal activities. If your doctor says you have a cataract, ask how 

much you’re likely to gain from cataract surgery to replace the cloudy lens and what 

your risks are. Cataract surgery, done by ophthalmologists in hospitals or eye clinics, 

is one of the most commonly performed surgeries. Serious complications are rare, 

but every surgery has risks. To learn more, visit the National Eye Institute.

Lasik and Other Vision-Correcting Surgeries

Who Cares?

FDA

Center for Devices and 

Radiological Health

fda.gov/cdrh/lasik

1-888-463-6332

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

International Society of 

Refractive Surgery

aao.org/isrs/patients

American Academy of 

Ophthalmology

eyecareamerica.org

1-877-887-6327

Eye Surgery Education 

Council

eyesurgeryeducation.com

Cataracts

National Eye Institute

www.nei.nih.gov/health

American Academy of 

Ophthalmology

eyecareamerica.org

1-877-887-6327

Internet tip:

For advice on 

how to find an 

eye care professional, 

visit the National 

Eye Institute at 

nei.nih.gov/health.
6 

National Institute 

on Aging

www.nia.nih.gov

1-800-222-2225

(TTY: 1-800-222-4225)

National Hospice 

and Palliative Care 

Organization

caringinfo.org/

advancedirectives

1-800-658-8898 

National Cancer 

Institute

cancer.gov

1-800-422-6237

American Bar 

Association 

Commission on 

Law and Aging

abanet.org/aging

Legal Resources

American Bar 

Association 

Commission on 

Law and Aging

abanet.org/aging/

resources

What are living wills and health care proxies? Are they just 

for people who are terminally ill?

A living will is a document that spells out your wishes for the kind 

of care you’ll receive if you’re not in a position to speak for yourself. A 

“durable power of attorney for health care” is a document that names a “health care 

proxy” — a person you choose to make health care decisions for you if you can no 

longer make them. Your proxy can reinforce decisions already spelled out in your 

living will, or handle situations and decisions your living will doesn’t address. 

Together, your living will and durable power of attorney for health care are known 

as “advance directives.” For more information about advance directives, visit the 

websites for National Institute on Aging, the National Hospice and Palliative Care 

Organization, the National Cancer Institute, or the American Bar Association 

Commission on Law and Aging, which offers a “Consumer’s Tool Kit for Health 

Care Advance Planning.” The kit takes you through questions and issues you may 

face as you create an advance directive. State laws vary, so be sure your documents 

and wishes are in line with your state’s laws. You may want to consult an attorney. 

To find resources in your area visit the ABA Commission on Law and Aging’s 

Resources page.

Though advance directives typically deal with end-of-life decisions, you can make 

the directives — and change them — any time. They also can be used in non-lifeor-death situations. For example, people diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s 

disease are encouraged to create advance directives for their care, in addition to legal 

documents that plan for their finances and estate. 

Tell your doctor if you create an advance directive. In fact, talking with your doctor 

may help you decide whether you want to create a health care directive, and what 

you want to include.

 Health Care Documents

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

To find legal services in your area, visit the ABA’s findlegalhelp.org. 

To search for an attorney who specializes in these kinds of issues, 

check out the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys at 

naela.org or the National Elder Law Foundation at nelf.org.
7

Pills & Products

I prefer to shop online if I can save some money. Is there any 

reason I shouldn’t buy prescription drugs or other medical 

products online? 

Shopping online can be a convenient way to look around and compare prices. But when it comes to buying prescription drugs online, be cautious: 

You could end up with drugs that are fake or include dangerous ingredients. 

Or, scammers who set up legitimate-looking websites could trick you into giving 

up personal information that they can use to steal your identity, take your money 

and send defective drugs, or simply vanish and send nothing at all. 

So how do you tell if you’re dealing with a reputable pharmacy? The FDA 

recommends using only websites of U.S.-based pharmacies licensed by a state’s 

board of pharmacy. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) 

has contact information for your state’s board, as well as a list of online pharmacies that have been accredited through its Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice 

Sites (VIPPS) program (click on Internet Pharmacies). These pharmacies are 

licensed and meet other NABP criteria. You’ll also find a link to sites they don’t 

recommend. 

Avoid sites that:

z don’t require a prescription

z don’t have a licensed pharmacist available to answer your questions 

z don’t provide their physical business address and phone number

z are based outside the U.S. or aren’t licensed by the state board of 

pharmacy where they are based

A disreputable seller could send drugs that are fake, expired, mislabeled, or 

the wrong dosage. The drugs could contain dangerous ingredients, or may not 

be stored or shipped correctly. And if the site is based outside the U.S., there’s 

very little the U.S. government can do if you get ripped off. For more on buying 

drugs — or other medical products — online, visit the FDA website. And keep 

in mind that drug prices vary, so you may want to shop around. 

For more on saving money with generic drugs, turn to page 9.

Buying Prescription Drugs Online

Who Cares?

FDA

www.fda.gov/buyonline

1-888-463-6332

Your state

board of pharmacy

National Association of 

Boards of Pharmacy

www.nabp.info

Internet tip:

Compare 

drug prices 

at different 

pharmacies online like 

you would offline, and 

remember to factor in 

shipping costs. 
8 

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

FDA

Center for Food Safety 

and Applied Nutrition

www.cfsan.fda.gov

1-888-463-6332

NIH

Office of Dietary 

Supplements

ods.od.nih.gov

National Center for 

Complementary and 

Alternative Medicine

nccam.nih.gov

1-888-644-6226

(TTY: 1-866-464-3615)

National Institute on 

Aging

www.nia.nih.gov

1-800-222-2225

(TTY: 1-800-222-4225)

Healthy Eating

USDA

Center for Nutrition 

Policy and Promotion

mypyramid.gov

1-888-779-7264 

I’m thinking about taking dietary supplements to stay healthy. The 

label says they’re all natural and have a lot of benefits. You don’t 

need a prescription to buy them, so they must be safe, right? 

Dietary supplements are products that contain “dietary ingredients” 

like vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and enzymes. 

They range from beneficial to bogus, and you may take them for a host of reasons — to feel healthy, to feel younger, to prevent disease, or just to get more 

nutrients. Many claim to be “natural.” 

But just because a supplement is “natural” doesn’t mean it’s harmless or safe. 

Some supplements, including herbal products, can be dangerous. For example, 

there are “natural” supplements linked to serious liver damage and even cancer. 

And though you can buy dietary supplements off the shelf without a doctor’s 

prescription, some can affect how well your prescription drugs work. Some 

supplements do have proven health benefits: for example, calcium supplements 

can reduce the risk of osteoporosis. The key is to talk to your doctor — especially if you have a medical condition, take other drugs, or plan to have surgery 

— before you add a supplement to the mix. 

For the latest information on dietary supplements, visit the websites for the 

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the FDA’s 

Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Dietary supplements don’t have 

to go through the same FDA review for quality, safety, and effectiveness before 

they’re sold that prescription or over-the-counter drug products do. But the 

FDA requires supplement manufacturers to test the identity, purity, strength, 

and composition of their products. Supplements labeled “homeopathic” do not 

undergo FDA review: by definition, they are diluted to a point where they have 

few, if any, active ingredients.

 Dietary Supplements 

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

Look up specific herbs and supplements on the 

Drugs and Supplements page at MedlinePlus.gov. 
9

My prescription drug costs are pretty high. A friend said she saves 

money by taking generics. She says they’re just as good. Is she right?

Generic drugs are as effective and safe as the brand-name drugs they’re 

based on. They have the same active ingredients and must work the same 

way as their brand-name counterparts to be approved by the FDA. That means they 

have the same risks and benefits, too. 

Three-quarters of the approved drugs on the market are available in a generic form. 

The FDA estimates that generic drugs cost 20 percent to 70 percent less than their 

brand-name counterparts. To see what generic drugs the FDA has approved lately, 

and for general information on generic drugs, visit the website for the FDA’s Office 

of Generic Drugs.

To find out if there’s a generic drug that would work just as well for you as the brandname drug, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Say you want the most effective drug at 

the best price. Each state has a law allowing pharmacists to substitute generic drugs for 

many brand-name products as long as your doctor doesn’t specify that the brand-name 

drug is required. Contact your state’s board of pharmacy to learn more. 

Switching Prescriptions

The pharmacist called to say my doctor switched the drug I take for my condition. 

She says it will save me money, but I’m worried the new drug might not work as well. 

Can I refuse to switch?

Sometimes, pharmacies and insurance companies get rebates or other incentives when 

they convince a plan member to switch drugs. But there may be other reasons. If you’re 

uncomfortable about the switch, ask your pharmacist or physician some questions:

z Will the new drug work as well for my condition? 

z Are the side effects or risks different? 

z Is the dosage the same? 

z Is there a business connection between the pharmacist and the drug 

manufacturer? 

z Will the switch save me or my benefit plan money, or cost me more?

If you’re still not satisfied, call your state health agency, your state board of 

pharmacy, or the FDA. They can help you decide if the change makes sense. 

 Generic Drugs

Who Cares?

Generic Drugs

FDA

Office of Generic Drugs

www.fda.gov/cder/ogd

1-888-463-6332

Consumer Reports 

Best Buy Drugs

crbestbuydrugs.org

Drug Questions

FDA

Center for Drug 

Evaluation and 

Research

www.fda.gov/cder

1-888-463-6332

Your state

board of pharmacy

National Association of 

Boards of Pharmacy

www.nabp.info

Your state health 

agency

FDA

www.fda.gov/oca/

sthealth.htm

1-888-463-6332

Internet tip:

Look up 

information 

on specific 

generic and brandname drugs on 

the Drugs and 

Supplements page 

at MedlinePlus.gov. 
10 

National Library of 

Medicine

Genetics Home 

Reference

ghr.nlm.nih.gov/

handbook/testing

1-888-346-3656

(TTY: 1-800-735-2258) 

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

National Human Genome 

Research Institute

genome.gov 

CDC 

National Office of Public 

Health Genomics

cdc.gov/genomics

National Cancer 

Institute 

cancer.gov/cancertopics

1-800-422-6237

(TTY: 1-800-332-8615)

FDA

Center for Devices and 

Radiological Health

www.fda.gov/cdrh

1-888-463-6332

I’m thinking of ordering a DNA test that I can take at home. I just 

need to swab the inside of my cheek and send in the sample. Is 

this a gimmick, or do these tests really work?

Genetic tests look for signs in your DNA that you’re more likely to 

have particular diseases or disorders during your lifetime. Not long ago, genetic 

testing was done only when requested by doctors or other health care providers. But recently, “do-it-yourself ” tests have become more popular. Typically, you 

send a blood sample drawn at a clinic or a swab of the inside of your cheek to a 

laboratory to analyze. Some companies ask you to fill out a questionnaire, too. 

But according to the FDA and CDC, many genetic tests on the market have no 

scientific validity, and others may give you results that are vague or meaningful 

only with a full medical evaluation.

Still, some companies say their tests will tell you how likely you are to get a 

specific disease — such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or Alzheimer’s. Others 

claim they can tell you what diseases you’re most likely to get, or how your body 

might respond to specific treatments. Some go so far as to suggest specific treatments, foods, or nutritional supplements, and offer a customized mix of supplements — usually at an exorbitant price. 

Most of the time, your likelihood of developing a disease depends on a number 

of factors, including diet, lifestyle, and what you’re exposed to. Even an accurate 

genetic test is telling you about only one factor. No standards govern the reliability or quality of at-home genetic tests. The FDA and CDC recommend that 

genetic tests be done in a specialized laboratory and that a doctor or counselor 

with specialized training interpret the results. 

If you decide to use an at-home genetic test, talk to your doctor or health care 

provider about which test might be best, and discuss the results with your 

provider afterward. Check to see how the company will protect your personal 

information. 

 At-Home Genetic Tests

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

If you decide to use an at-home genetic test, read the privacy 

policy posted online. It should tell you how the company 

protects your information.
11

My eye doctor just told me my prescription has changed. I’d 

like to shop around for new glasses, but the doctor didn’t 

give me a copy of my new prescription. What can I do?

Ask for it. Your eye care provider should always give you a copy of 

your prescription, even if you don’t ask for it. The same is true for contact lens 

prescriptions. It’s the law. The FTC enforces the contact lens and eyeglass rules, 

which give you the right to your prescriptions so you can buy your eyewear 

where you like — from an eye care provider, such as an optometrist, ophthalmologist, or dispensing optician, or from a seller, like a specialty shop, large 

wholesale store, or online retailer. 

Expect to get your eyeglass prescription at the end of your eye exam, and 

your contact lens prescription after your fitting. Even if you don’t need your 

prescription yet, you can file it with your other medical records. If an eye care 

provider refuses to give you your prescription, report it to the FTC. 

If you’ll be shopping for contact lenses, remember that all lenses — even 

cosmetic ones that change the appearance of your eye but don’t correct your 

vision — require a prescription. If lenses don’t fit correctly, or aren’t used and 

cared for properly, they can cause problems like corneal ulcers, which can 

lead to blindness, conjunctivitis (pink eye), or scratches and sores on your 

cornea. Avoid any seller who doesn’t require a prescription. For more on buying contact lenses, visit the FDA’s website. To learn more about taking care of 

your eyes, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America 

website, and the website for the American Optometric Association. 

Vision Prescription Portability

Who Cares?

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

American Academy of 

Ophthalmology

eyecareamerica.org

1-877-887-6327

American Optometric 

Association

aoa.org

1-800-365-2219

Contact Lenses

FDA

Center for Devices and 

Radiological Health

www.fda.gov/cdrh

1-888-463-6332

Internet tip:

If you plan to buy your eyewear from an online retailer, do your 

research. Order only from companies you’re familiar with, and 

find out what happens if there’s a problem with your order. 
12 

National Institute on 

Deafness and Other 

Communication 

Disorders

www.nidcd.nih.gov

1-800-241-1044

(TTY: 1-800-241-1055) 

American Academy of 

Audiology

audiology.org

1-800-222-2336 

Academy of Doctors of 

Audiology

audiologist.org

1-866-493-5544

American Academy of 

Otolaryngology

entnet.org 

American SpeechLanguage-Hearing 

Association

asha.org

Better Hearing Institute

betterhearing.org

1-800-327-9355

AARP

aarp.org

1-888-687-2277

I often ask people around me to repeat what they say, and I need 

to turn up the volume on my TV. I think I might need a hearing 

aid. I’ve seen ads for hearing aid dealers who guarantee 

satisfaction. What else do I need to know?

Almost 40 million Americans deal with hearing loss. But not all of them can 

be helped by a hearing aid. That’s why it’s a good idea to visit an otolaryngologist, a physician who specializes in the ear, nose, and throat, before you buy. It’s 

possible your hearing loss is caused by a medical condition, and treating the 

condition would improve your hearing. Or, you might find that you have a type 

of hearing loss that an aid won’t help. A medical evaluation is so important that 

the FDA requires hearing aid sellers to tell you about your need for one before 

you buy. If you decide not to have a medical evaluation, you must sign a waiver. 

If your doctor thinks a hearing aid could help you, you’ll need to get a hearing test and fitting by a licensed hearing health professional, like a qualified 

audiologist. Look for someone who offers products from several manufacturers 

so you can find the best aid for your needs. Then check out the sellers with 

your local Better Business Bureau (BBB), consumer protection agency, or state 

Attorney General (AG). Find out whether dispensers and audiologists need 

to be licensed or certified by your state, and what other protections you have 

under state law.

When you shop for an aid, ask if there’s a trial period so you can test it. Most 

states require one, and even in states that don’t, most audiologists will offer it. 

Be sure to find out what fees are refundable if you return the aid during the 

trial period, and get the details about guarantees and warranties. It’s important 

to get this information in writing. Check whether the price quoted includes 

testing and other services, as well as the aid. If you buy an aid, but believe the 

seller isn’t living up to a guarantee, file a complaint with your state AG, BBB, or 

the FTC. 

 Hearing Aids

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

Buying a hearing aid online can be risky. An aid needs to be 

custom fitted and tested to be sure it’s working properly. 
13

I have a lot of health problems, and I live alone. I’m worried about 

a health emergency when no one is around. Would a personal 

emergency response system be useful?

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS), also known as Medical Emergency Response Systems, let you call for help in an emergency by pushing a 

button. A PERS has three components: a small radio transmitter, a console connected to your telephone, and an emergency response center that monitors calls. 

Transmitters are light-weight, battery-powered devices. You can wear one around 

your neck, on a wrist band, on a belt, or in your pocket. When you need help, you 

press the transmitter’s help button, which sends a signal to the console. The console 

automatically dials one or more emergency telephone numbers. Most PERS are programmed to telephone an emergency response center. The center will try to find out 

the nature of your emergency. They also may review your medical history and check 

who should be notified. 

You can purchase, rent, or lease a PERS. Keep in mind that Medicare, Medicaid, 

and most insurance companies typically don’t pay for the equipment, and the few 

that pay require a doctor’s recommendation. Some hospitals and social service 

agencies may subsidize the device for low-income users. If you buy a PERS, expect 

to pay an installation fee and a monthly monitoring charge. Rentals are available 

through national manufacturers, local distributors, hospitals, and social service 

agencies, and fees often include the monitoring service. Read the contract carefully 

before you sign, and make note of extra charges, like cancellation fees. For more on 

how to shop for a PERS, visit the FTC website.

Your local Area Agency on Aging may be able to tell you what systems are available 

in your area. See if friends, neighbors, or relatives have recommendations. When you 

have a list of agencies you’re considering, check with your local consumer protection 

agency, state Attorney General, and Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints 

have been filed against them. Questions you can ask a PERS company include:

z Is the monitoring center open 24/7? What kind of training do staff receive? 

z What’s the average response time, and who gets alerted? 

z Will I be able to use the same system with other response centers if I move? 

What if I move to another city or state?

z What’s your repair policy? What happens if I need a replacement?

z What are the initial costs? What costs are ongoing? What kind of services 

and features will I get?

Personal Emergency Response Systems

Who Cares?

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

Your Area Agency 

on Aging

eldercare.gov

1-800-677-1116

(TRS: 1-800-677-1116)

Checking Out a PERS

Company

Better Business Bureau

bbb.org

Your state Attorney 

General

naag.org

Your local consumer 

protection agency

consumeraction.gov/

state.shtml

Internet tip:

Your options 

when it comes 

to PERS may 

depend on where 

you live. Try looking 

up your local Area 

Agency on Aging at 

eldercare.gov, and 

ask them about your 

options. 
14 

Weight Loss Claims

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-800-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

Health and Nutrition

National Institute of 

Diabetes and Digestive 

and Kidney Diseases

Weight-control 

Information Network

win.niddk.nih.gov

1-877-946-4627

CDC

Division of Nutrition, 

Physical Activity and 

Obesity

cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa

1-800-311-3435

USDA

Center for Nutrition 

Policy and Promotion

mypyramid.gov

1-888-779-7264

FDA

www.fda.gov/loseweight

1-888-463-6332

American Dietetic 

Association

eatright.org

1-800-877-1600

I’ve always had trouble keeping my weight down. I’ve heard about 

a pill that helps you lose weight — and you don’t have to stop 

eating the foods you love or start exercising all the time. Could 

this really work?

Getting to a healthy weight now can lower your risk for all kinds of diseases 

later. It’s never too late to start. But pills, patches, and creams promising quick, 

easy, and lasting weight loss aren’t worth the money or the risk. As promising 

as claims may sound, doctors, dieticians, and other experts agree that the best 

way to lose weight — and keep it off — is to eat fewer calories and increase your 

activity so you burn more energy. There’s nothing you can wear or apply to your 

skin that will cause you to lose weight. While there is a weight loss pill approved 

by the FDA for prescription and over-the-counter use by people who are overweight, it’s designed to be used along with exercise and a reduced-calorie, low-fat 

diet. To learn more, visit the FDA website.

When you see a weight loss product, read the claims. Be skeptical when you see:

“Lose weight without diet or exercise!” 

“Lose weight permanently!” 

“Lose 30 pounds in 30 days!”

“Everybody will lose weight!”

The reality is that the quicker you lose the weight, the more likely you’ll gain it 

back. Experts recommend a goal of losing about a pound or two a week. Even if 

a product promising lightning-fast weight loss causes you to lose weight, it also 

could be hurting your health. To learn more about false weight loss claims, visit 

the FTC website.

The federal government has many resources on safe and effective ways people can 

lose weight, including those listed on the left. 

 Weight Loss Promises

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

To check if you’re at a healthy weight, calculate your body mass index (BMI) — a measure 

of weight adjusted for your height — at the CDC website.
15

What is medical ID theft, and how is it different from any 

other identity theft?

Medical identity theft happens when someone steals your 

personal information and uses it to commit health care fraud. 

Medical ID thieves may use your identity to get treatment — even surgery 

— or to bilk insurers by making fake claims. Repairing damage to your 

good name and credit record can be difficult enough, but medical ID theft 

can have other serious consequences. If a scammer gets treatment in your 

name, that person’s health problems could become a part of your medical 

record. It could affect your ability to get medical care and insurance benefits, 

and could even affect decisions made by doctors treating you later on. The 

scammer’s unpaid medical debts also could end up on your credit report. 

You can catch medical identity theft early on. First, read every “Explanation 

of Benefits” statement you get from your health insurer. Follow up on any 

item you don’t recognize. At least once a year, ask the health insurers you’ve 

been involved with for a list of the benefits they paid in your name. Finally, 

make it a regular practice to check your credit reports. You’re entitled to a 

free report from each of the three nationwide companies every 12 months. 

You can order your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com. For 

more about your rights, visit the FTC website. 

If you think you may be a victim of medical identity theft, ask your health 

care provider or hospital for your medical records. You have a right to get 

copies of your current medical files from each health care provider, though 

you may have to pay for them. You also have a right to have inaccurate or incomplete information removed. Learn more about your rights under federal 

law at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) website. If a 

health care provider refuses, you can file a complaint with the HHS Office 

of Civil Rights. Your state provides rights, too. You can look up your state’s 

laws online at the Georgetown University Center on Medical Rights and 

Privacy. Many hospitals have ombudsmen or patient advocates who also can 

help. 

For more information on protecting personal information, visit the FTC 

website. 

Medical ID Theft

Who Cares?

FTC

ftc.gov/credit

ftc.gov/idtheft

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

Health Insurance

Portability and 

Accountability Act

(HIPAA)

Department of Health 

and Human Services

hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa

1-800-368-1019

(TTY: 1-800-537-7697)

Getting Your Free

Credit Report

AnnualCreditReport.com

annualcreditreport.com

1-877-322-8228

Your State’s Laws

Georgetown University 

Center on Medical 

Rights and Privacy

ihcrp.georgetown.edu/

privacy/records.html

Your state Attorney 

General

naag.org

Internet tip:

You don’t need 

to wait until 

your wallet is 

stolen to get your free 

credit report from each of 

the consumer reporting 

companies. You’re entitled 

to a free report from each 

one every 12 months at 

annualcreditreport.com. 

Scams & Frauds
16 

Medicare

medicare.gov

1-800-633-4227

(TTY: 1-877-486-2048)

Your State Health 

Insurance Assistance 

Program (SHIP)

medicare.gov

1-800-633-4227

(TTY: 1-877-486-2048)

FTC

ftc.gov/idtheft

1-877-438-4338

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

Reporting Fraud

Department of Health 

and Human Services 

Office of Inspector 

General

oig.hhs.gov/hotline.html

1-800-447-8477

(TTY: 1-800-377-4950)

Your Senior Medicare 

Patrol

smpresource.org

1-877-808-2468

Finding a Free or

Low-cost Clinic

Health Resources and 

Services Administration

findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov

1-888-275-4772

(TTY: 1-877-489-4772)

Partnership for 

Prescription Assistance

Free Clinic Finder

pparx.org/

FreeClinicFinder.php

1-888-477-2669

Internet tip:

Have questions about Medicare?

Go to Medicare.gov.

Last month I visited a clinic giving free checkups to people 

who have Medicare. When I looked at my Medicare notice 

today, I saw charges I didn’t recognize. Did they charge 

me after all?

Medicare fraud happens when someone intentionally uses your Medicare 

number to bill Medicare for services or equipment you didn’t get or didn’t 

need. The culprit could be a care provider, a scam artist who got your 

patient identification number through a sham clinic, or an employee with 

access to your records. And it costs the government billions of dollars each 

year. 

What can you do? Check your monthly Medicare statements. If you aren’t 

sure about a charge, first call the person or company who provided the 

service. Most errors are honest mistakes. If you still aren’t sure about a 

charge, call the Customer Service number on your statement. Or call your 

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). The number is on 

the Medicare website. If you believe the charge may be fraudulent, contact your local Senior Medicare Patrol or report it to the Department of 

Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General. 

Protect your Medicare number by carrying it and giving it out only when 

you need to. For general information on protecting your personal information, visit the FTC. 

Be skeptical of clinics or providers who advertise free services specifically for Medicare patients. If you need to find a federally-funded health 

center that is free or low-cost, visit the Health Resources and Services 

Administration or use the Partnership for Prescription Assistance’s Free 

Clinic Finder. If you don’t have a computer at home, visit your local library.

Medicare Fraud

Who Cares?
17

I’m getting calls about switching to a new Medicare 

prescription drug plan. The caller says the plan will save 

me money. He said I could enroll on the phone. How do I 

know what I’m getting? 

Medicare Part D plans are prescription drug plans that work like insurance, 

and they’re open to anyone with Medicare. The right plan may help control 

your future drugs costs and may even lower your current costs. 

Each Part D plan is different — each can cover different drugs or be 

available only in a certain area. Medicare doesn’t operate the plans; it 

simply approves insurance companies or other private companies to do that 

job. But the providers have to follow Medicare rules that limit how they 

promote their plans. Unfortunately, some plan representatives occasionally 

break the rules and use high-pressure sales tactics and false promises to try 

to enroll you in a plan that may not cover the drugs you take. Or, scammers 

may pretend to be Part D providers trying to get your personal information 

— such as your Medicare number — to commit ID theft. 

It’s important to know the rules and do business only with providers 

that follow them. People who represent Medicare drug plans can’t send 

you emails you didn’t ask for or show up at your house uninvited. They 

can’t charge you a fee to enroll or ask you to pay by phone or online. They 

must send a bill. They can call to tell you about a plan if you’re not on the 

National Do Not Call Registry, but they can’t sign you up unless you call 

them. For more on Part D solicitations and how to protect yourself, visit 

the FTC website. Report rule-breakers to the Medicare Drug Integrity 

Contractors (MEDICs) program. 

Learn more about Medicare Part D and compare plans available in your area 

at Medicare.gov. Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) 

also can point you to local resources that offer free customized advice. Look 

up your SHIP at the Medicare website.

Medicare Part D Plans

Who Cares?

Medicare

medicare.gov/pdphome.asp

1-800-633-4227

(TTY: 1-877-486-2048)

Your State Health Insurance 

Assistance Program (SHIP)

medicare.gov

1-800-633-4227

(TTY: 1-877-486-2048)

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

Reporting a Provider

or Potential Scam

Medicare Drug Integrity 

Contractors (MEDICs)

1-877-772-3379

Registering or Filing

Complaints with the

Do Not Call Registry

National Do Not Call 

Registry

donotcall.gov

1-888-382-1222

(TTY: 1-866-290-4236)

Internet tip:

To find and 

compare 

Part D plans, 

use the Medicare 

Prescription Drug 

Plan Finder at 

Medicare.gov.
18 

FTC

ftc.gov/health

1-877-382-4357 

(TTY: 1-866-653-4261)

Healthfinder.gov

healthfinder.gov

MedlinePlus

medlineplus.gov

National Health 

Information Center

www.health.gov/nhic

FDA

www.fda.gov

1-888-463-6332

I saw an ad that said, “CURE YOUR ARTHRITIS WITHOUT DRUGS 

USING THIS ALL-NATURAL, GOVERNMENT-APPROVED REMEDY.” 

A natural remedy appeals to me, but poison ivy is natural, 

too. Seems like some products promise more than they can 

deliver. How can I tell if this one really works?

Miracle products claim to cure serious conditions — often conditions that 

science has no cure for, like arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple 

sclerosis, cancer, and HIV-AIDS. Some products even claim to be a “cure-all” 

for several diseases and a host of symptoms. Often, the ads claim the products 

come with money-back guarantees. Unfortunately, these products, devices, and 

treatments often are unproven and useless, making promises they can’t fulfill.

The reality is that phony miracle products can have dangerous interactions 

with medicines you’re already taking. They also might cause you to delay or 

stop medical treatment for your condition, even when proven treatments are 

available from your physician. And a money-back guarantee may be meaningless. It can indicate that a scammer is planning to take your money and close 

up shop.

Products that claim to do it all often do none of it. So even though you want 

to believe them, be skeptical, and avoid products that:

z claim to cure incurable conditions 

z make extraordinary promises like “shrinks tumors” 

z promise a long list of benefits, including “treats rheumatism, arthritis, 

infections, prostate problems, ulcers, cancer, baldness, and more!”

z are promoted with phrases like “scientific breakthrough,” “ancient 

remedy,” or “miraculous cure,” or scientific-sounding terms like 

“thermogenesis”

Always talk to your doctor, pharmacist, other healthcare professional, or 

public health organizations before you try any new treatment.

 Miracle Cures

Who Cares?

Internet tip:

To find 

reliable 

sources of 

information about 

diseases and their 

treatments, visit 

MedlinePlus.gov and

Healthfinder.gov. 

To learn more 

about alternative 

and complementary 

medicine, visit 

nccam.nih.gov.
19

I need help paying for my prescriptions. I heard an ad on 

the radio for a number to call to see if you qualify for free 

prescriptions. When I called, they said I was eligible, but I 

had to pay a pretty big fee. Is this a scam?

Prescription assistance programs, or PAPs, enable people who can’t afford to 

pay for their medications to get them for free or a reduced price. Typically, the 

programs are sponsored by prescription drug companies or your state. Your 

financial situation, the cost of the drugs, and whether you have other prescription drug coverage help determine whether you qualify for a prescription 

assistance program.

Emails, ads, and websites for companies that guarantee free or low-cost 

prescription drugs for a hefty fee upfront are scams. You are paying for information and applications that are available for free. And even if the company 

applies to legitimate programs on your behalf, you still may be turned down 

for the prescription assistance program. 

If you think you may be eligible for free or low-cost prescription drugs, you 

don’t have to pay to find out. Ask your physician or pharmacist, or visit one 

of the websites on this page. For example, the Partnership for Prescription 

Assistance (PPA) helps consumers find prescription drug coverage. After you 

enter the prescription medicines you take and answer several questions about 

your prescription and financial situation, the site directs you to programs you 

may be eligible for. You can apply online, or you can ask your health care provider to do it for you. Either way, health care providers usually need to approve 

applications. If you need information on free or low-cost providers and clinics 

in your area, visit the federal Health Resources and Services Administration 

or use PPA’s Free Clinic Finder. While all Medicare patients can search for 

Medicare Part D plans on the internet, those who may qualify for extra help 

can find more information from the Social Security Administration.

Prescription Assistance Programs

Who Cares?

Finding a PAP

Partnership for 

Prescription Assistance

pparx.org

1-888-477-2669

Access to Benefits 

Coalition

accesstobenefits.org 

RxAssist

rxassist.org

For Medicare Beneficiaries

Social Security 

Administration

ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp

1-800-772-1213

(TTY: 1-800-325-0778)

Finding a Free or

Low-cost Clinic

Health Resources and 

Services Administration

findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov

1-888-275-4772

(TTY: 1-877-489-4772)

Partnership for 

Prescription Assistance

Free Clinic Finder

pparx.org/

FreeClinicFinder.php

1-888-477-2669

Internet tip:

If you don’t have a computer at home, ask a trusted family 

member or friend if they can help, and talk to your doctor.
20 

How to File a Complaint

The key to an effective consumer complaint is knowing where — and when — to file it. Have you given 

the company a chance to fix the problem? Often, a brief letter explaining what happened and what 

you hope the company will do can make a difference. But if the company won’t right a wrong, or if you 

suspect fraud, it’s time to file a complaint.

If your complaint is about a health product or service, you may want to contact one of the organizations 

below. But first, make sure you have important information on hand, like the name and address of the 

company. Filing a complaint won’t guarantee your problem gets fixed, but it can help build a case against 

a business later. For example, while the FTC can’t help individual consumers, its complaint database is a 

resource for law enforcement agencies all over the U.S. and abroad. 

To report deceptive business practices or other types of consumer fraud: 

z FTC — Go to ftc.gov/complaint, or call 1-877-382-4357 (TTY: 1-866-653-4261).

z Your state Attorney General — Find a list of state AGs at naag.org. 

z Better Business Bureau — File a complaint about a business, website, or non-profit or charitable 

organization at complaint.bbb.org.

z Your local consumer protection office — Find an office near you at consumeraction.gov.

Look under “Where to File a Complaint.”

To report problems with a medication or medical device:

z FDA — Find out where your complaint should go at 

 www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/problem.html.

To report scams and suspicious activity involving Medicare:

z HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) — Call the OIG’s fraud hotline at 1-800-447-8477 

(TTY: 1-800-377-4950). 

z FTC — Visit ftc.gov/complaint, or call 1-877-382-4357 (TTY: 1-866-653-4261).

To report fraud or abuse related to a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan:

z Medicare Drug Integrity Contractors (MEDICs) — Call 1-877-772-3379.

For help with a complaint about a long-term care facility:

z Your state long-term care ombudsman — Find an ombudsman with the Ombudsman Locator at

ltcombudsman.org. 

To report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation:

z National Center on Elder Abuse — Visit ncea.aoa.gov, or call 1-800-677-1116. 
21

October 2008

Websites and phone numbers are current at press time.
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

1–877–FTC–HELP (1–877–382–4357)

ftc.gov/health