Lost Your Medicare Card? How to Replace It
Losing your Medicare card is a common, fixable problem, and you do not need to panic. The card itself is just a token. What matters is your Medicare number, and you can recover that and order a replacement card in a few minutes.
The quickest path is your Medicare online account through myGov or the Express Plus Medicare app. If your card was stolen rather than simply misplaced, it is worth reporting it to Services Australia so your details can be protected.
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To order a replacement card, you can:
- Sign in to myGov, open your linked Medicare service, and request a replacement card
- Use the Express Plus Medicare mobile app
- Call the Medicare line or visit a Services Australia service centre
Check your postal address is correct before you request the card, since that is where it will be sent. Services Australia sets out every option on its replace or update your Medicare card page. A replacement usually arrives within about three weeks, and your Medicare number normally stays the same.
You do not need the physical card to find your number. Once you sign in to your Medicare online account through myGov or open the Express Plus Medicare app, your digital card shows your full Medicare number and position number.
This digital card is accepted in most situations, so you can keep getting care while the replacement is in the post. If your old card had also expired, our guide on an expired Medicare card covers what still works.
Your Medicare number is a piece of personal identity information, so it is worth protecting. Only share it with trusted health providers, and be cautious of unexpected calls, texts or emails asking for it. Services Australia will never ask you to confirm your details through a link in a text message.
If you think your details have been misused, report it through the Services Australia scams and identity theft page. When you book with a legitimate provider like Abby, your details are handled under Australian privacy law.
Because your Medicare number is what counts, you can keep seeing a doctor while your replacement card is on the way. With your number from the digital card, you can book an online appointment with Abby straight away.
Consultations are bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card. Strict eligibility criteria apply. If you need to renew rather than replace, see our guide on how to renew your Medicare card.
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For replacing your card, recovering your number, or any question about eligibility, Services Australia is the official source through your Medicare online account or the Medicare phone line.
This article is general information about Medicare administration and is not medical advice. If you have a medical emergency, call 000 immediately.
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The information reflects guidance available as of the "last updated" date shown above. Medical knowledge evolves, and individual circumstances vary — always discuss decisions about your care with a qualified clinician.
In an emergency, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department. Abby Health is not an emergency service. For mental health crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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