Iowa seniors started seeing new Medicare cards in their mailboxes this month, but millions are not even aware that the new identification cards are on their way. A recent survey by AARP revealed that an astounding 75 percent of respondents knew nothing about new cards being issued. This is about 44 million people who may be questioning why they now have a card with different numbers than their old one. The new, more secure cards boast a number that is unique to every person with Medicare. The old cards, which were based on the person’s Social Security number, were more susceptible to identity theft. “Scammers are hoping that you won’t be informed about the change in Medicare cards,” says Kris Gross with the Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP). “Iowans need to be aware that scammers may try to use the opportunity to get their personal information.” There are a few tips to avoid this, and it starts by understanding that you don’t have to pay for your Medicare card. It is free. Also, don’t give the Medicare number to anyone you don’t know or who you have not contacted first. Only share it with doctors or other people in the community who work with Medicare. And don’t let anyone lead you into believing your Medicare benefits will be cancelled unless you give them your number. If you are threatened with this, hang up. Once your new card arrives in the mail, destroy the old on and start using the ID immediately. Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact the Elderbridge Agency on Aging or LifeLong Links. Contact details are included here.
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Elderbridge Agency on Aging:
www.elderbridge.org or call 800-243-0678
Lifelong Links:
www.lifelonglinks.org or call 866-468-7887
