What to do with your Card

When you receive your Medicare card, it’s essential to handle it carefully and take a few steps to ensure your healthcare coverage is accurate and secure. Here’s what you should do with your Medicare card:

1. Review the Information: Take a moment to review the information on your Medicare card, including your name, Medicare number, and effective coverage dates. Ensure all the details are accurate and match the information you provided during your enrollment.

2. Keep it Secure: Treat your Medicare card like you would any other sensitive identification document. Store it safely and securely to prevent loss, theft, or unauthorized use.

3. Carry it with Caution: While it’s essential to have your Medicare card accessible, you don’t need to carry it with you at all times. You can only bring it to medical appointments or when you’re accessing healthcare services. Instead, consider making a copy of the card to carry while keeping the original secure at home.

4. Protect Your Medicare Number: Your Medicare number is valuable personal information. Please be careful about sharing it, and only provide it to trusted healthcare providers and insurance companies. Scammers might try to obtain your Medicare number for fraudulent purposes.

5. Keep Track of Appointments and Claims: Use your Medicare card to keep track of your appointments and services. Also, review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements to ensure the services listed are accurate and were received.

6. Update Information as Needed: If you need to update any information on your Medicare card, such as a change of address, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to make the necessary updates.

7. Be Wary of Scams: Be cautious if you receive unsolicited calls or emails asking for your Medicare number or personal information. Medicare will never call you to ask for this information over the phone. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

8. Notify Providers of Coverage Changes: If you’re switching from other insurance to Medicare, inform your healthcare providers of the change in coverage. This helps ensure a smooth transition and accurate billing.

9. Check Eligibility Periods: Know your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) and other enrollment periods for specific Medicare parts. This helps you make timely decisions about your coverage.

Following these steps ensures that your Medicare card is used appropriately and that your healthcare coverage remains secure and accurate.