Two New York-based medical supply companies, Gazar Recovery Inc. and Almaz Med Supply Inc., have been accused of defrauding consumers and insurance agencies, including Medicare, by charging for supplies that many consumers claim they never ordered or received.
These allegations come amid a rising number of complaints filed against both companies, drawing attention from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
According to a news release from the BBB, both Gazar and Almaz have received numerous complaints in the past year regarding their billing practices. Many consumers reported that the companies sent bills to their insurance providers for medical supplies they were unaware of and even shipped products they had not ordered.
As of the latest records, there were 103 reports lodged against Almaz Med Supply in the BBB Scam Tracker, along with 11 formal complaints. Gazar had significantly fewer reports, with 12 Scam Tracker entries and an equal number of formal complaints, indicating potential concerns surrounding their operations.
Walter Brewster, the senior vice president for the Metro New York BBB, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that both businesses have not responded to multiple inquiries from the bureau.
“The worst thing a company can do in our world is not answer,” Brewster explained. “They never responded to us.”
The state business registry indicates that Gazar Recovery is currently active and registered in Monsey, New York, while Almaz Med Supply is based in Woodside, Queens. Almaz’s website markets it as “your trusted medical supplier,” showcasing various medical supplies.
Brewster stressed that while no complaints have originated from Long Island, the risk of such scams can affect anyone, as they often occur without any direct communication or consent from consumers.
He advised consumers on how to protect themselves against potential scams, which can take many shapes and forms.
According to Brewster, it’s crucial to have immediate discussions with your insurance provider to ensure they are alerted to unauthorized charges or supplies that were delivered without consent.
Furthermore, consumers are advised to be cautious and avoid engaging with unfamiliar companies. Researching businesses through the BBB to verify their reliability is highly recommended.
Always remember to thoroughly review insurance papers as well as explanations of benefits (EOBs) to catch any potential discrepancies or fraud early.
Brewster emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activities to appropriate government agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission or local Attorney General’s Office.
“Consumers are urged to check insurance statements for accuracy and pay attention to who is billing your health insurance, whether it’s Medicare, Medicaid, or a private insurance provider,” stated Claire Rosenzweig, president and CEO of the Metro New York BBB.
She reinforced the message that anyone could fall victim to insurance fraud, highlighting the ongoing challenge consumers face in protecting their rights and finances against unscrupulous companies.
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