408 - 04/05 - Fraudulent Medical Expenses

The Club is aware of an increasing number of fraudulent claims in cases where seafarers are seeking medical attention in their homeland following repatriation on medical grounds.  The problem arises mainly in countries where forged receipts are readily available on the black market and computer generated receipts easily match those distributed by genuine clinics.  The Club is also aware of fraudulent claims being made in genuine medical cases where additional receipts that are not genuine are submitted for payment.

We have seen that fraudulent claims are being made not only for fabricated medical costs but also for other treatments and items purchased which bear no relevance to the claim. This has been noticed particularly where written receipts are not properly authenticated.

All medical treatment should be monitored and controlled and should not be left in the hands of a potential claimant. Members should also request original receipts and not accept photocopies as this will assist in identifying forgeries.

We strongly recommend that once a seafarer has been disembarked and/or repatriated on medical grounds that the Club is notified immediately. This will enable us to assist the Member by appointing a local Club correspondent, where appropriate, and ensure that all associated costs and expenses arising are reasonably incurred prior to settlement.

Source of information:

Loss Prevention Department

UK P&I Club

Email:

lossprevention.ukclub@thomasmiller.com