Six Things to Know About Your Medicare Card

Don't forget to carry your Medicare card with you when you’re away from home. Let your doctor, hospital, or other health care provider see your card when you need hospital, medical or other health services. Here are six things to know about your Medicare card:

1. Your card has a Medicare Number that’s unique to you, instead of your Social Security Number. This helps to protect your identity. 
2. Your card is paper, which is easier for many providers to use and copy.
3. 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. And, if you have a Medicare drug plan, be sure to keep that card as well.  Even if you use one of these other cards, you also may be asked to show your Medicare card, so keep it with you.
4. Only give your Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.
5. If you forget your card, you, your doctor or other health care provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online.
6. As soon as you receive your Medicare card go to www.medicare.gov/account and create your personal account. Your secure account lets you access your information anytime. There you can sign in to see your Medicare number or print an official copy of your card. 

Information from www.medicare.gov