Your insurance card is a vital health care tool. Always carry it with you.
This card includes information about your insurance company, plan, policy and more. Understanding your insurance card can help you get the medical services you need. It may also help you control your health care costs.
Here's what you need to know about what’s on your card—and what it all means.
Your insurance card contains several pieces of information. We need these details to submit insurance claims on your behalf. Your card should include:
We’ve gathered a list of important terms on your insurance card. This list applies to most private health insurance ID cards in the United States. You may see different terms on your card if you live outside the United States or have government-provided insurance.
We’re dedicated to helping you understand your health insurance. However, you should always call the customer service number on your insurance card if you have questions about your health plan or coverage.
There are many types of health insurance plans, including:
Your insurance company lists your plan type on your card. This helps your healthcare provider file claims correctly. Each plan type handles referrals, in- and out-of-network providers, and out-of-pocket costs differently.
Some plan types include the company name. Others, like Medicare or Child Health Plus, appear on your card as logos. Some insurance companies give specific names to certain plans, such as those in the federal health care exchange (also called “Obamacare”).
Your insurance company gives you a unique ID number, which is on the front of your card. Healthcare providers and staff use this number to verify your insurance coverage and arrange payment for services. Your insurance company also uses this number to look up your policy and answer questions about claims and benefits.
Insurance companies give unique ID numbers to employers who purchase health plans for employees. This number identifies specific benefits associated with the plan. Your healthcare provider will use this group number and your member ID number to file claims for your care. You may not have a group number if you purchased insurance through the health care exchange.
Your medical network includes the health care providers and hospitals that contract with your insurance company. These providers and facilities are “in-network.” All other providers and facilities are “out-of-network.”
Your insurance company may offer out-of-area coverage through a different healthcare provider network. If so, the network’s name will be on your insurance card. Use this network if you need health services while you’re away from home.
Most insurance cards show the amount you pay for visits to your primary care provider, specialists, urgent care or the emergency department. This is your out-of-pocket cost. It may be a flat rate (copay) or a percentage of the total cost (coinsurance).
You may see two numbers. The first is your cost for seeing an in-network provider. The second number is your cost for seeing an out-of-network provider, which is typically higher.
The back of your insurance card usually includes your insurance company’s name, phone numbers, and website.
At Emory Healthcare, we accept a wide range of insurance plans. Please note that our list of approved companies is subject to change.
Please contact your insurance company to clarify your coverage before you receive any medical service. You should also call the company if you have any questions about your insurance coverage or policy.
Your card may include additional useful information, such as:
