Local help is available for any victims of the orthopedic braces Medicare scam

Federal authorities have broken up a $1.2 billion Medicare scam centered on orthopedic braces.

Local participants of the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), based out of Winneshiek Medical Center, say they can be a resource for any Northeast Iowans who might have been victims of the scam.

SHIIP volunteers are available by appointment Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at Winneshiek Medical Center in Decorah by calling 563-387-3036.  SHIIP does not endorse insurance companies, plans or agents; the volunteers answer questions and provide impartial information to help seniors make well-informed decisions.   SHIIP is available to help people going on Medicare, people who are over age 65 who are on Medicare, and people who are on disability with Medicare and Medicaid.

Local SHIIP volunteers can help victims of the braces scam develop casework information to submit to the federal government's Office of the Inspector General.