11/16/12
Summary:
- Starting in early 2013, semi-permanent HFS Medical Cards will be issued to medical benefits' clients instead of monthly cards.
- CN 13.01/S, Get Ready! Changes Are Coming to the HFS Medical Card (pdf), will be inserted with the January 2013 medical cards.
- Staff, medical providers and clients will receive more information in the coming months about the new cards.
State law (Public Act 96-0940) requires that HFS issue semi-permanent medical cards instead of monthly medical cards. CN 13.01/S, Get Ready! Changes Are Coming to the HFS Medical Card (pdf), will be inserted with the January 2013 medical cards.
It is important to prepare clients for the new cards. At this time, we expect to issue the semi-permanent cards after February 2013. Since the cards will no longer be issued monthly, clients will have to hold on to them longer. The cards will not have begin and end dates that guarantee coverage for a specified period. That means that medical providers will always have to confirm eligibility when services are provided.
Staff, medical providers and clients will receive more information in the coming months about the new cards. A second more detailed notice will be sent to clients prior to the implementation of the new cards. Additionally, a brochure about how to use the new medical card will be inserted with the new cards when they are mailed to clients.
[signed copy on file]
Michelle R. B. Saddler
Secretary, Illinois Department of Human Services
Julie Hamos
Director, Healthcare and Family Services
Forms referenced:
