MEDICAID-MED CARD SAFEGUARDS

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that the permanent or semi-permanent member cards issued to individuals enrolled in the medical assistance program shall include safeguards to limit the unauthorized use of the medical card by an individual other than the member to whom the card has been issued; and that these safeguards shall include, but not be limited to, the use of a matrix barcode or related technology which allows a medical provider to access data, including identifying data and the medical history of the individual named on the card. Provides that the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall be authorized to enter into contracts with other public and private sector entities to maximize the amount of information and data available to be accessed through the use of these cards. Effective immediately.