Now that it is 2019, many Medicare recipients will see changes they previously made to their policies take effect. However, all Medicare subscribers will see a big change—a newly-designed Medicare card. You might
have had your previous card information for some time. However, you must now use the new Medicare card when you go to the doctor. Here is why.
The new Medicare card might not look all that different to you. However, it contains important information that you now must present to your doctor. Don’t forget to keep your Medicare card with you to your next office visit.
The New Medicare Card
Until 2019, the standard Medicare card had seen relatively little change over the years. It is a familiar red, white and blue card that millions of Americans carry. It contained:
- Your name
- A Medicare Claim Number—the claim number was usually all or part of your social security number
- The date your coverage began
- The types of coverage you carried (Medicare Part A, Part B or both)
The most-familiar Medicare card changed significantly in 2019, however. It got a bit of a facelift, but you’ll also notice a rather big change.
Starting this year, your Medicare card will now have an entirely new Medical Claim Number. The old Medicare claim number was your Social Security Number. However, the new number is a randomized series of letters and numbers that is unique to you. Don’t worry, your social security number still will be printed on your existing Social Security card. The Medicare Claim Number does not replace your Social Security Number.
The number will help you file claims for your health care, and it will apply uniquely to you. The purpose of the new number is to help better protect Americans’ identities. Given the privacy of your Social Security number, by replacing it with the new number, you’ll have less reason to worry in case you lose your Medicare card, or it gets stolen.
Please note, the new Original Medicare card does not replace any paperwork you have regarding a Medigap, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D Prescription coverage.
The Medicare program began to mail the new card to recipients during the last months of 2018. All cards have been mailed in all states. If you have not received your card, you do have resources to locate the card.
- The new card came in a plain white envelope from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- You can get your card by visiting MyMedicare.gov and printing the card.
- Call Medicare directly at 1-800-633-4227 or 1-877-486-2048 (for TTY users).
For other assistance understanding when and where to use your new Medicare card, call one of our agents today at 631-539-6351. We are happy to help you get covered.