Introduction
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that covers people aged 65 and older, as well as those with certain disabilities and chronic conditions. Medicare cards are used to access these benefits. In 2022, new Medicare cards will be issued. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about these changes.
Background on Medicare Cards
Medicare cards have been used to access healthcare benefits since the program was introduced in 1966. Until recently, these cards displayed the recipient’s Social Security number (SSN) across the front, making them susceptible to fraud and misuse. This created security concerns, prompting changes to be made to the Medicare card system.
What’s Changing with the 2022 Medicare Cards
The most significant change with the new Medicare cards is the removal of SSNs. The Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI) is replacing SSNs to make the cards more secure and protect personal information. The new cards will also have a unique, randomly assigned 11-digit number for each individual that uses a combination of numbers and uppercase letters.
How to Check If You’ll Be Getting a New Card
Everyone who is currently enrolled in Medicare will receive a new card, regardless of their enrollment date, over the course of the year. CMS will mail new cards to people on a rolling basis between April 2018 and April 2019. You can check the status of your new card by visiting Medicare.gov/newcard.
How to Get Your New Medicare Card
You don’t have to take any action to receive your new Medicare card. CMS will automatically mail it to you at no cost. You just need to make sure your address on file with the Social Security Administration is up to date.
What to Do With Your Old Card
Once you receive your new Medicare card, you should destroy your old one immediately. You can’t use both cards. You should also make sure to let your healthcare providers know that you have a new card on file, so they can update their records accordingly.
Conclusion
The new Medicare cards being issued in 2022 aim to protect your personal information and address security concerns. Recipients should take care to update their healthcare providers of their new cards and destroy their old ones to prevent potential fraud.
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