Important Info: New Medicare Cards

New Medicare cards are coming
CMS/Medicare will mail new Medicare cards between April 2018 and April 2019. Arkansans will start receiving their new cards after June 2018.--From April-June 2018 Issue of SMP newsletter

10 things to know about your new Medicare card:
1. Your new card will automatically come to you in the mail. You don’t need to do anything as long as your address is up to date. If you need to update your address call Social Security 1-800-772-1213 or sign up for a my Social Security account (https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/).

2. Your new card will have a new Medicare Number that’s unique to you, instead of your Social Security Number. This will help to protect your identity.

3. Your Medicare coverage and benefits will stay the same.

4. Mailing takes time. Your card may arrive at a different time than your friend’s or neighbor’s.

5. Your new card is paper, which is easier for many providers to use and copy.

6. Once you get your new Medicare card, destroy your old Medicare card and start using your new card right away.
7. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your Medicare Advantage Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare—you should still keep and use it whenever you need care. However, you also may be asked to show your new Medicare card, so you should also carry this card to your appointments.

8. Doctors, other health care providers and facilities know it’s coming and will ask for your new Medicare card when you need care, so carry it with you to your appointments.

9. Only give your new Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.
10. If you forget your new card, you, your doctor or other health care provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online.