identification card (ID card)

Health insurance card issued to the insured (member or subscriber) as proof of membership from a private insurance plan, managed care plan, or government program (see Figure I-1 ). ID cards do not guarantee eligibility for medical benefits but verify the patient has health coverage. It includes the insured’s name, member number, group number, type of coverage, effective date, deductible, copayment, and other information. This card is produced when a patient wishes to receive medical services, and usually the provider’s staff photocopies the front and back sides for reference when submitting an insurance claim. Also called membership card and health insurance card . Front (top) and back (bottom) sides of an insurance card.