New identification cards are intended to keep users safe

Coverage will not change



 

 

COMMENTARY /// Medicare

Starting this month, new cards are being mailed to all people with Medicare.

As scammers are always looking for ways to get Social Security numbers, those numbers will be removed from Medicare cards to make them safer.

The new cards will have a new Medicare number that’s unique to the individual to help protect identities and keep personal information more secure.

The cards can be used as soon as they are received; Medicare coverage and benefits won’t change at all.

The cards will automatically be mailed—at no cost—to the address on file with Social Security, so users should make sure their mailing address is up-to-date. For changes, go to ssa.gov/myaccount or call (800) 772-1213. TTY users should call (800) 325-0778.

Once the new Medicare card is received, take the following steps to make it harder for someone to steal information and identity: Destroy the old card right away; beware of anyone who asks for the new Medicare number, personal information or a fee for the card; and treat the number as if it were a Social Security or credit card number.

Only give the new Medicare number to doctors, pharmacists, insurers or other people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf. Doctors, other healthcare providers and health plans approved by Medicare are ready to accept the new cards.

Medicare will never call uninvited and ask for personal or private information to get the new card. Scam artists may try to get personal information, like a current Medicare number, by calling about the new card. If someone asks for your information or for money or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don’t share your personal information, hang up and call (800) 633-4227.

The new Medicare card will be paper as they are easier for providers to use and copy, and they save taxpayers money. Plus, users can print their own replacement card if they need one.

If users forget the new card, they, their doctor or other healthcare provider may be able to look up the new Medicare number online.

For those in a Medicare Advantage plan (like an HMO or PPO), the Medicare Advantage plan ID card is the main card, which should be kept and used for care. However, be prepared to show the new Medicare card as well.

If the new Medicare card isn’t received by April 2019, call (800) MEDICARE (633-4227). TTY users can call (877) 486-2048.

Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Nevada, Hawaii and the Pacific Territories. For more information, call (800) 633-4227.