Fake Hospital/Doctor Calls
Your child was in an accident — we need money for treatment
Scammers call claiming to be a doctor or hospital staff member, saying a family member has been injured in an accident and is being treated at the hospital. They ask for money for treatment, surgery, or room deposits.
What to Watch For
- Hospitals do not demand payment over the phone for emergency treatment
- Caller won't let you speak to the patient, nurse, or hospital administrator
- Insists on immediate payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- Cannot provide verifiable hospital name, doctor name, or room number
Examples
""Hello, this is Dr. Williams from City General Hospital. Your daughter was involved in a car accident and is in surgery. We need $2,000 deposited now for her room and medications. Please wire the money as soon as possible.""
Why it works: The image of a family member in an accident and surgery triggers immediate panic. Parents want to do anything to help, even before confirming the situation is real.
What to Do
Ask for the hospital's name and call it directly using a number from their official website, not one the caller provides. Ask to speak to the patient, their nurse, or the hospital billing department. In the US, emergency rooms treat patients regardless of ability to pay.