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Several states have passed Identity Theft
laws to protect the confidentiality of Social Security numbers
for state residents. The laws restrict the use of Social Security
numbers (SSN) as customer identifiers by non-governmental
entities and individuals. Other states are expected to follow.
In response to these legislative and regulatory initiatives,
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) has begun
gradually converting subscribers' identification numbers from
the SSN to an alternative ID number - a Unique Identifier
(UID). We are following the alphanumeric ID structure and
conversion deadline mandated by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Association.
How does this affect members?
During the next two years (by January 1,
2006), all members will be issued new ID cards with their
new unique identifier number. Members will use this number
for any health care transaction. In addition to new numbers
on ID cards, the change will affect the use of SSNs on explanations
of benefits, Web site postings and Internet transmissions.
As allowed by law, we will continue to obtain Social Security
numbers on applications and/or electronic files for internal
purposes. Members may continue to use their SSN when contacting
BCBSIL's Member Service.
SSN Legal Opinion for Georgia and Utah
In addition, there have been new developments
in the legal opinion regarding the SSN laws for Georgia and
Utah. The Georgia SSN law has been determined to be "non-extraterritorial,"
which means it does not apply to BCBSIL.
Please note that to date there have been
no changes to legal opinion regarding Texas law requiring
that BCBSIL convert all members residing in Texas by January
1, 2005. California renewing groups will also be converted
beginning July 1, 2004.
Conversion schedule
We will follow the process below to comply
with state laws and the mandate by the Blue Cross Association.
- Effective January 1, 2004, all new groups will be assigned
UIDs.
- By January 1, 2005, all members residing in TX will be
converted to the UID format.
- By January 1, 2006, all other groups
will have been converted to the UID format.
When you receive an identification
card with the new UID format, be sure to present it to your
physician.
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