Medicare cards are a key part of health insurance in the United States as it proves what your coverage is and when it began if you’re unable to do so, so what happens if you lose your card and you need to order a replacement?
Your Medicare card contains a unique number exclusive to you proving whether you have Medicare Part A (hospital) or Part B (medical). Your number is separate to your Social Security number.
You should never provide these details to anyone who is now a verified health care provider or health care insurance company, and you should never hand details out over the phone, email or in-person to anyone who approaches you.
This protects you from fraud and other complications. If you experience this, or threatening behaviour, you should immediately contact 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048 to report.
You need these details to apply to any further Medicare drugs plan; or to purchase and sign Medicare Supplement Insurance, which is commonly known as Medigap.
If you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B), then you should take your card with you when you’re away from home and you should show your card to your doctor or hospital upon arrival to access services.
A total of 68 million individual Americans across the United States use one form of Medicare, which is approximately 20% of the population.
There are 34.4 million on Part A and B, 31.3m on Part C (Medicare Advantage) and 50m on Part D, which covers prescription drugs.
How do I get a replacement Medicare card?
If your Medicare card has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement online at Medicare.gov.
You also have the option to print an official copy of your card directly from your online Medicare account.
Alternatively, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227, TTY: 1-877-486-2048) to order a replacement card to be mailed to you.