From the DukeHealth.org archives. Content may be out of date.
Medicare Issuing New Cards
No Change to Benefits
Be on the lookout for new Medicare cards.
Medicare is issuing new Medicare cards that will feature a Medicare ID number instead of your Social Security number. Cards will be mailed to enrollees in North Carolina sometime after June 2018.
Removing Social Security Number Is Biggest Change
Your new Medicare card will no longer display your Social Security number. Instead, it will show your new, unique, randomly assigned Medicare Number. This change was made to prevent fraud, fight medical identity theft, and protect your private health care and financial information. Be sure to protect your Medicare Number and keep it confidential.
When to Use Your New Medicare Card
As soon as you receive your new Medicare card, begin using it instead of your old Medicare card whenever you're asked for insurance information at your Duke Health appointments.
If you're in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) or Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, you'll still need to show your ID card for that plan when you receive care. You may also be asked to show your new Medicare card, so it's a good idea to carry both.
Your Benefits Don't Change
All that's changing is your Medicare card; your coverage and benefits aren't changing in any way.
North Carolina Medicare Cards to be Mailed After June 2018
North Carolina Medicare enrollees will receive their new Medicare cards sometime after June 2018. Until then, you can continue to use your current Medicare card.
You can find more information about the new cards and check the status of card mailings in your area on Medicare.gov.
