It’s time to start using the new Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI) since patients have been issued new cards. If you’re using a patient’s old card that included a Social Security number, you have until the end of December to confirm your system is updated for the new format. MBI numbers are also available through your MAC online portal if a patient does not provide a new card.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2020 only the new MBI will be accepted. CMS has provided instructions for patients who state they haven’t received a new card:

• Check to see if you have an unopened plain white envelope from the Department of Health and Human Services.
• Sign into MyMedicare.gov to get their new numbers or print official cards. An account will need to be created.
• Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)

Additional information can be found at aao.org/mbi.