WhidbeyHealth officials are warning about a scam artist who is calling residents and pretending to be a bill collector.

According to the hospital, the faux bill collector has been rudely demanding payment by credit card and threatening to place liens their homes.

Hospital officials say that the hospital may call and ask for payment on overdue accounts but will never ask for personal information like Social Security numbers.

To ensure patients’ safety, the hospital recommends that people pay bills at the online system available at https://whidbeyhealth.org/online-bill-payment.

Of those who have questions or need help with medical bills can call 360-678-7656, ext. 4097.