Eligibility requirements to obtain a medical card are far less complex than requirements for insurance. Many card providers offer a number of membership programs based on how much of a discount the applicant wishes to receive on health care services. Medical cards typically offer lower rates on health care services such as doctor visits, laboratory testing, vision and dental treatments, prescriptions, and even medical supplies.
Function
Medical cards can be used as complement to health insurance coverage and offer the card holder several discounts and benefits from their preferred health care provider. These cards do not provide insurance coverage, but are used as a way to pay for the costs of certain services, procedures and supplies at a discounted rate. Medical card holders may be required to pay a monthly fee to become a member of the program and will then be eligible to receive discounts and other benefits with participating health care providers.
Eligibility
All medical card providers require applicants to complete an eligibility form that contains personal details including: full name, current address, health insurance provider (if any), social security number, contact phone number, any pre-existing health conditions and employment information. If the company is linked to an insurance provider, this information may simply be transmitted automatically and an offer for the medical card will be extended to the insured. Individuals who seek medical card discount programs on their own may apply for them online. Cardholders must make their monthly or annual membership fee payment in order to receive their discounted rates.
Types
Some of the leading medical card providers include: Alliance Health Card, UnitedHealth Allies, Benicard, ProCare and Companion Care. Each one works with different service providers in select states to offer discounted services and fees; each company also has different membership fees and requirements. Consumers interested in applying for these cards can submit their information online or over the phone.
Benefits
Medical card providers that have achieved a positive standing with the Better Business Bureau do offer value to singles, families, retirees and children who need specialized treatments that are not covered by health insurance. Some medical card programs offer comprehensive discounts on hospitalizations and major surgery, and these discounts may be better than any reimbursement received by a health insurance provider. Ultimately, these programs can help save the cardholder money on health care services they wish to pay out of pocket, or on services that may not be covered by their existing insurance provider.
Warnings
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a warning about medical card scams and providers that promise coverage for certain services but do not offer any type of substantial discount. Consumers are encouraged to do extensive research about their discount program and make sure that the provider is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Cardholders should also do research about the health care insurance provider to make sure they are receiving quality health care services regardless of any discounts honored.
Tags: health care, insurance provider, card providers, care services, health care services