Are new Medicare cards being issued for 2023? The answer is yes. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that new Medicare cards will be mailed to all current and new beneficiaries starting in April 2023. This initiative is part of the ongoing effort to enhance the security and efficiency of the Medicare program.
The new Medicare cards will feature a unique Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI), replacing the old Health Insurance Claim Number (HICN). The MBI is a randomly generated 11-character number that is more secure and less susceptible to fraud than the HICN. This change is aimed at protecting beneficiaries from identity theft and ensuring the integrity of the Medicare program.
Why the Change?
The primary reason for issuing new Medicare cards is to improve the security of personal information. The HICN, which was used on the old Medicare cards, was a nine-digit number that was easily guessable and could be used by fraudsters to commit identity theft. By replacing the HICN with the MBI, CMS hopes to make it more difficult for criminals to exploit personal information.
Additionally, the new cards will have a more user-friendly design. The MBI will be printed in a larger font and will be easier to read, making it more accessible for beneficiaries with visual impairments. The cards will also include the beneficiary’s name, address, and the date of birth, which were already present on the old cards.
What to Expect
Beneficiaries should expect to receive their new Medicare cards in the mail by April 2023. It is important to note that the new cards will not affect a beneficiary’s coverage or benefits. Once the new card arrives, beneficiaries should keep it in a safe place and destroy the old card.
In the event that a beneficiary does not receive their new card by the expected date, they should contact their local Social Security office or call the Medicare helpline at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). It is also important to be aware of scams related to the new Medicare cards. CMS advises beneficiaries to be cautious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or letters asking for personal information.
Conclusion
The issuance of new Medicare cards for 2023 is a significant step towards enhancing the security and efficiency of the Medicare program. By replacing the old HICN with the MBI, CMS is taking measures to protect beneficiaries from identity theft and ensure the integrity of the program. Beneficiaries should be prepared to receive their new cards and take steps to keep their personal information secure.
