Keep in mind that drug prices vary, so you may want
to shop around. Sites such as PharmacyChecker.com
for Canadian citizens and Consumer Reports in the
United States (www.consumerreports.org) help
you compare drug prices. Rxaminer (www.rxaminer.
com) provides information on generic substitutes for
common drugs that might save you money, if your
doctor approves them for your use.Medical Identity Theft
With the increase in personal medical records being stored online,
medical ID theft is of great concern. People with serious medical condi-
tions may be more willing to provide information that leads to identity
and financial theft. Just because you share information about a health-
related issue online doesn’t mean you have to share personally identify-
ing information.Medical ID theft may result in your medical records becoming inaccu-
rate, as insurance claims for conditions you don’t have go into your file.
You may end up paying thousands of dollars for deductibles or treat-
ment of uncovered conditions. Your credit could be damaged, and
insurance cancelled.Medical ID theft is a lucrative business. Your medical coverage can be
leveraged or sold in a variety of ways:➟ Using your insurance and your identity someone with
no health coverage can buy prescription drugs online
or get medical treatment charged to your insurance
policy.➟ Your information can be used to submit false claims
to insurance companies, and the criminal collect the
payments.286
Part III: Protecting Your Wealth and Your Health