Which ID Card Are You Using?

When you go to a doctor or other provider, do you know which card identifies you as an Empire Plan enrollee? It’s the one that says "New York Government Employee Benefit Card." Unfortunately, the card doesn’t have the Empire Plan name, logo or telephone numbers on it so some enrollees forget it’s their Empire Plan card.

Providers often send claims for payment to PEF because PEF members have incorrectly given their PEF identification card to the provider instead of their Empire Plan card. PEF does not administer these benefits, issue health plan identification cards or process claims. Every claim sent to PEF has to be returned to the provider with an explanation about the correct address for submitting Empire Plan claims, which delays payment.

Please be sure to use your New York Government Employee Benefit Card for all provider visits. If you need replacement cards see the Health Benefits Administrator in your agency Personnel Office.