The California Department of Health Services (DHS) recently announced that it would delay until further notice implementation of a new law that requires physicians to use patients’ 14-digit benefits identification card (BIC) numbers instead of Social Security numbers (SSNs) when billing Medi-Cal. The law, originally scheduled to take effect March 1, also prohibits using patients’ Social Security numbers to verify eligibility.

This law is intended to prevent identity theft and protect patients’ private health information by eliminating unnecessary use of SSNs.

The purpose of the delay is to allow DHS more time to educate patients and providers about the new rules. In the meantime, physicians are encouraged to avoid using patients SSNs whenever possible.

Contact: CMA’s reimbursement help line, 888/401-5911.