Doctors, do you need patients' social sec # for inusrance purpose?

Question

I think you'll say yes, but there seem to be mixed opinion about this. Back in 2000, my insurance member is was my social sec #, but that's no longer the case.

Some insurance companies will say that I can give just the last four digits, but when calling to make appointment, most of doctor's receptionists ask for your social sec # which I am not comfortable with.

What do you say?

Answer 1

The Insurance Company i have switched from SS#ers to policy #ers. If you don't feel okay about giving ss#er, tell the rep. they should be able to have you verify your name and date of birth as my doctors office does. They shouldn't be asking for that anyway since the insurance doesn't require it!

Answer 2

Well yeah since there are lots of ID being mistaken or being the same ... the social security is just fine to be asked since its part the rules nowadays... Dont worry There is HIPAA it will protect you from spreading all the private information like the SSN.

Answer 3

nope, they are required to bill claims to the insurance company with the policy id#er. if they bill with the social #er and it's not the policy #er the claim will not be processed.

Answer 4

Not a doc here . .

The MAIN reason the doc wants your SS#, is in case you stiff him, it's much easier for him to send your account to collections - and get money for it - if he has your SS# on file.  Also, he'll be using that, when his office submits info to the Medical Information Bureau.  

MOST insurance companies no longer use SS#'s, to control identity theft liability issues.

Of course, you do not have to give him your SS#.  But then he's free to not accept you as a patient, either.

Answer 5

You do not have to provide your SSN to receptionist over the phone.  Most doctor's offices like to verify a patients insurance information (Remember They Want To Get Paid).  I would offer to simply fax your health insurance card.  Fax front & back. Or Email.  The health insurance card will normally have all the pertinent information which is needed to verify your benefits, co-pay etc.