How can Medicare Advantage enrollees get care before their ID cards arrive?

It's January 2nd. You're waiting in line at the pharmacy. There's just one problem.

You switched plans during Medicare's Open Enrollment Period (or Annual Election Period if you're an old-schooler), and your new plan identification card hasn't arrived just yet. 

Did it get lost in the mail? Slowed down by letters to Santa? Maybe it's under a fruitcake somewhere...

This kind of situation happens more frequently than both carriers and the postal service would probably like to admit. It can create serious frustration for everyone. But you can take some simple steps to get care immediately, and then ensure a card gets delivered to you.

Short-term solutions for accessing needed benefits

But, there are two simple ways to access your benefits in the short term.

First, if you're willing and able, you can show a virtual ID card. This is available through your plan's mobile app if the carrier offers it.

But if you're not willing and able, you can bring these items to the pharmacy or provider's office:

• Red, white, and blue Medicare card
• Photo ID
• Acknowledgment, confirmation letter, or enrollment confirmation number from the new plan
• If applicable, a Medicaid card or letter showing eligibility for Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy)

With those three or four items ready, the pharmacy or provider can check enrollment and submit the claim as usual. 

If the provider can't verify enrollment, your health insurance agent can help you submit the claim and request reimbursement directly from the carrier.

Tracking and securing a new identification card

You're not out of the woods yet. Even though you may get the care you need today, you'll want to do everything you can to make sure an ID card lands in your inbox.

Here's what to try next:

• Some carriers will allow you to track the delivery status of your ID card in your member portal -- just like you track your next Amazon package.
• Regional carriers may allow you to track the delivery status of your ID card by calling their customer service hotlines.
• When in doubt, you can always request a replacement via your member portal or service hotlines

But, if you're working with any health insurance agent worth their salt, make them your first call. They have the tools, experience, and know-how to resolve issues like these quickly and ensure you can get right back to using your plan.

And, if you need a health insurance agent who will listen to your needs, help you choose the right coverage, and navigate any hiccups you encounter, we'd humbly recommend any of the folks at our agency. Contact us, and we'll put our knowledge to work right away.