Some of the most important information you need to use your health plan is on your insurance card. You’ll need the information on your card if you talk on the phone about your plan or look for information on your insurer’s website.

Your insurance card tells health providers basic information about your plan and who it covers. You’ll need to show your insurance card any time you receive a health care service or talk to a health care provider (a doctor, for example) in person. If you’re covered under more than one health plan (you have coverage through work, but you’re also covered under your spouse’s health plan), you need to bring both insurance cards with you.

When you get your insurance card, check the information on the front of the card.

Does the information match what you bought? Is the plan type correct? Is the network name what you expected? Are the cost-sharing amounts correct? If there is a Primary Care Provider (PCP) listed on your insurance card, is it correct?