Here are a few reasons why it is important for you to obtain a patient’s Social Security number and in turn, furnish that information to TSC. With identity theft being a major concern in today’s times, many consumers are apprehensive about providing their Social Security number. Though this concern exists, Social Security numbers are in the same category as other identification information; such as the individual’s name, address, and date of birth. In an effort to curb identity theft, and realizing that health insurance information is a big target for identity thieves, the Federal Trade Commission, in 2007, unveiled what they call the “Red Flags Rule”. The Red Flags Rule requires all creditors, including certain health care entities, to collect Social Security numbers as proof the patient is the person he or she says they are. If patients do not have the required documentation, that raises a red flag. By collecting and furnishing this information to TSC, this will enable us to positively identify the consumer, collect the debt and help curb identity theft.
