Phelps Health continues to receive reports of phone scams from people impersonating our staff. Follow these tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Common Scam Tactics and Warning Signs
- Impersonating Phelps Health staff
- Demanding immediate payment or requesting payment by unusual methods (gift cards, wire transfers)
- Threatening arrest, denial of future medical care or debt collection
- Creating fake emergencies requiring immediate payment for a loved one’s treatment
- Calling outside of normal business hours
How Phelps Health Contacts You
- Billing: We send billing statements by mail or through MyChart, depending on your settings. We may call about payments or arrangements, but we never demand immediate payment.
- Appointments and medical information: We send appointment reminders, test results and medical updates through secure channels like MyChart, mailed letters or verified phone numbers. We may also call to pre-register you for a scheduled appointment.
- Verification: If we call you, we may confirm limited details, but we only ask for your full name and date of birth.
If you are ever unsure, hang up and call us at (573) 458-8899.
What to Do if You Suspect a Scam Call
- Hang up immediately. Do not engage with the caller.
- Do not press any numbers. This confirms your number is active and could lead to more calls.
- Do not call the scammer back.
- Call Phelps Health directly at (573) 458-8899.
Do not call any number provided by the suspicious caller.
Where to Report Scam Calls:
- Rolla FBI Field Office: (573) 364-1100
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): reportfraud.ftc.gov or 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC): File a complaint about unwanted calls at fcc.gov/complaints.
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
- Educate your family: Talk to older relatives, friends and neighbors about these scams.
- Be skeptical: Question any call demanding immediate action or sensitive information.
- Guard personal information: Share personal or financial details only with verified sources.
For any questions or concerns regarding this information, please call Phelps Health at (573) 458-8899.