DHEC warns of Phone Scam targeting Surgery Patients

South Carolina residents are being warned about another phone scam.  The Department of Health and Environmental Control says someone is calling recent surgery patients and claiming to be a DHEC employee in an effort to fraudulently obtain personal information. The caller reportedly contacts citizens and asks about recent surgeries, saying the citizen might be eligible for reimbursement. DHEC has referred the incident to the State Law Enforcement Division. DHEC oversees public health in South Carolina as part of its duties. The agency says if one of its employees were to contact a patient, the employee will provide appropriate identification and a legitimate phone number. If you receive a suspicious phone call, contact your local law enforcement agency.