New Medicare cards in the mail; MBIs available through portal

Why This Topic Matters

Medicare card changes affect patient registration, eligibility workflows, and claims processing during the transition period. Offices that understand the rollout can avoid administrative delays and be prepared for patients who arrive with new cards or need help locating their updated identifier.

Article Sections

1. CMS rollout of new Medicare cards

   Overview of the new card mailing program and the reason for the identifier change. Covers the general rollout status and the groups included in the initial distribution.

2. Transition period and claims handling

   Discussion of the temporary overlap between older Medicare identifiers and the new beneficiary identifiers. Explains the transition timeframe for provider offices and claims systems.

3. Retrieving beneficiary identifiers through MAC portals

   Summary of how provider offices can use Medicare administrative contractor portal tools to look up updated beneficiary information for recordkeeping.

4. Lost or stolen card guidance

   General instructions for handling beneficiary reports of missing or stolen cards and where patients are directed for assistance.

5. Resource: MAC provider portals

   Reference to the external CMS resource listing provider portal access by state.