Example of a common "Dear Doctor" scam

Dear Health Care Provider,

May we take a few moments of your time to explain a really great diagnostic tool that you can begin using immediately on your patients.

It is infrared dermagraphic imaging and it can be done in your clinic for less than $500 one time investment and using a standard PC. Paraspinal skin temperatures are measured with a digital infrared thermometer and the results are entered into the computer. The software then takes over and produces a spectacular color screen print or hard copy.

This is easy to use, a great education tool for your patients, and has great reimbursement. Get as much as $450 per scan!

More questions? Visit our web site at Cand see what it is all about. Still more questions? Call 815-425-4198 and we will be happy to discuss this really great system and how it can help your practice. This just might be the edge you need during this tough times.

Thanks for your time and we look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
The MDI team.

My Response:

I would like to know how this differs from thermography as specifically defined and excluded by Medicare:

"Thermography is the measurement of self-emanating infrared radiation that reveals temperature variations at the surface of the body. The thermographic device senses body temperature and demonstrates areas of differing heat emission by producing brightly colored patterns." etc.

The scans will likely get reimbursed, that is until an audit comes around and determines exactly what service is being billed.