Your Medicare Card

Old 70 y/o.... walking tall..... Young 20 y/o wanting her purse... Do you REALLY think your walk will stop him??
 

QuickSilver said:
You really need to stop for a reality check at this point dear..
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Hey, I don't care what you think, or how you plan to face things, or if you want to worry yourself silly. And most of the advice I see you hand out to people that don't agree with you is always advice that would be most appropriate for you to take yourself, dear.
 

nwlady said:
Hey, I don't care what you think, or how you plan to face things, or if you want to worry yourself silly. And most of the advice I see you hand out to people that don't agree with you is always advice that would be most appropriate for you to take yourself, dear.
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I don't worry myself silly nwlady... I just am not stupid enough to carry important things in my purse that can be stolen., and would require a whole lot of effort or headache to replace it they were.. That way I don't HAVE to worry myself silly......dear
 
drifter said:
It seems to be an individual matter how we handle our identification. It really doesn't matter much as long as it peases the individual. Do what pleases you. You have my permission to laminate or not laminate, to carry or not carry, but if you do carry get a holster. A holster handles the piece more securely.

(you can all now say, that's cute, real cute... )
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I agree completely Drifter. What is comfortable for some may not be for others. Knowing that my SS# would be on my Medicare card now, I personally would not want to carry it in my wallet daily. My current insurance ID card has just part of my SS# on it, and that's enough for me. If I do decide to carry, I will consider using a holster. ;)

I'm not paranoid, and refuse to be anyone's victim...but I know that regardless of my capabilities, my attitude, my pepper spray or other self-defense items I may carry when needed, there may be someone who overtakes me, knocks me out by surprise, and that's the end of that story. Chances are I'd be more worried about being physically tortured or killed.

Having said that, why have my most personal information on my person when out in public on any given day. I think many of us have even accidentally forgotten our wallet or purse somewhere, when paying for something. That's more likely IMO, than being held by gunpoint for my Medicare card. In no way am I paranoid, just street-wise and realistic.
 
When my mother and I visited Rome years ago, we were advised by the security folks to NEVER put our purses around our necks, because women were being dragged into traffic and killed because they couldn't release their purse during an attack. The attackers either dragged them into traffic, or just strangled them with the purse strap.

I agree with whomever above said they'd just release their purse. IMHO it is foolhardy to risk losing your life over the contents of your purse. I'd a lot rather go through the hassle of replacing things than be dead in the parking lot. AND I have no illusions about being able to win in a scuffle with a young man trying to take my purse -- even when I was 20, I couldn't have won over a strong young man trying to take my purse.

I'd a lot rather be a live victim than a dead one.
 
I keep my wallet in my back pant pocket like a man, rarely if ever have the need or desire to carry a purse or pocketbook...will do my best not to be anyone's victim, but won't just give in to them either.
 
If you don't want to carry these cards with you, it's simple........don't! But, those of us that do aren't "stupid" for doing it!! Your choice not to carry them, others chose to carry them.

BTW, I've already told all of us that are online in this Forum.........identity theft can happen on here as well, but we are all still on here!

QuickSilver said:
I don't worry myself silly nwlady... I just am not stupid enough to carry important things in my purse that can be stolen., and would require a whole lot of effort or headache to replace it they were.. That way I don't HAVE to worry myself silly......dear
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SB, I do understand what you are saying, but if a person is pointing a handgun at me, I sure don't want to leave my wife (possibly die) by saying, "nope, you're not going to get it". "Give in" to save my life, you betcha!

SeaBreeze said:
I keep my wallet in my back pant pocket like a man, rarely if ever have the need or desire to carry a purse or pocketbook...will do my best not to be anyone's victim, but won't just give in to them either.
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ClassicRockr said:
SB, I do understand what you are saying, but if a person is pointing a handgun at me, I sure don't want to leave my wife (possibly die) by saying, "nope, you're not going to get it". "Give in" to save my life, you betcha!
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If there's a gun pointed at me, I'll have to make the decision at the time for sure...I can't know how I'll react until something like that happens. But I think as previously mentioned, if somebody with a gun demands I get in their car, I would tell them what to do with their gun before subjecting myself to something possibly much worse than a bullet in me. Of course concealed carry would solve all these issues, I just haven't decided to go that route yet.
 
I already suggested that one might make a copy of their SS card with the number covered, to carry on their person. Here's an article with some suggestions...http://go60.us/advice-and-more/item/243-beware-the-danger-of-carrying-your-medicare-card

This is certainly an issue worth addressing, whether you take action or not, thanks QuickSilver for the heads-up before I apply for Medicare.


What Can You Do?

The most common advice is actually pretty good. Photocopy your Medicare card and make a few copies, actually fold one into wallet‑size. On all copies, black out the last four digits of your Social Security number, or use scissors to cut out the digits.

If you use a black marker to obscure the number, hold the card up to a strong light to make sure the numbers are no longer readable. Then put the original and all but one or two copies in a safe place, just like you do with your Social Security card.

Chances are when you visit your regular physician, he or she has your original card on file. Showing them your copy, along with photo ID if they ask for it, should be more than enough. But if you are unsure, call your physician before your next visit and ask if this will work.

If you need to see an unfamiliar medical professional, call ahead if possible and ask if you must bring your original card to the initial visit. Explain your concern. If you are advised to bring your original, just be certain to ask for it back after you present it, and then take it home and secure it again.

According to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse (PRC) which is a San Diego, California- based nonprofit consumer organization dedicated to consumer information and consumer advocacy even if you are taken to an emergency room in an unconscious state, you need not worry.

The hospital should be able to look up your information. Diane Corrigan, CFO of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania told reporters that not having your card might delay billing, but eventually the hospital will be able to determine your eligibility. Meanwhile, your identity is protected.
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When I was 13, my first husband applied for a SS# so he he claim me on 'his' taxes. But he never told me about it, and well after I divorced him, when I was 18, I was living in Boston,Mass, and I needed a SS# to get a job there. So I applied for one not knowing I already had one. After a couple of years, I came back to Texas, and went to work here. Within six month, I was contacted by the SS board, and I was told I needed to go in to see them.

That's when I was told you can't have two working SS#'s. So they gave me a plastic SS card. That was to signal everyone that I had two numbers. Trouble was that 'everyone' didn't know what the plastic card signified. So I left the darn thing at home whenever I could. No one wanted to accept it as ID anyway.

I've had a gun pointed at me twice. The first time I was working at a Stop & Go corner store, and I was robbed. I wasn't smart enough to be frightened, but I did realize that wasn't the safest job around. So I quit the next week.

Then at the age of 27, I got a job as a courier. I was bonded, lisencened, and my stepfather, (he was a state trooper), trained me to use a gun. I chose a Ladies Special. After three years, it finally happened, a man tried to hold me up, and I shot that little gun right through the pocket of my slacks. He was hit in the hip, and he went down immediately.

Most at of my life I was doing good to hold onto 115 pounds, much less fight a man of any age. So I do believe in self protection.

�� �� ��
 
Butterfly said:
When my mother and I visited Rome years ago, we were advised by the security folks to NEVER put our purses around our necks, because women were being dragged into traffic and killed because they couldn't release their purse during an attack. The attackers either dragged them into traffic, or just strangled them with the purse strap.

I agree with whomever above said they'd just release their purse. IMHO it is foolhardy to risk losing your life over the contents of your purse. I'd a lot rather go through the hassle of replacing things than be dead in the parking lot. AND I have no illusions about being able to win in a scuffle with a young man trying to take my purse -- even when I was 20, I couldn't have won over a strong young man trying to take my purse.

I'd a lot rather be a live victim than a dead one.
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When I visit areas crowded with tourists and pickpockets I wear capri's or trousers with secure pockets (velcro/zipper/button) and/or blouse with pockets to carry money and cc's. I usually carry a camera bag or camera backpack. But the biggest pain would be losing credit/debit cards so those are safe.
 
QuickSilver said:
Old 70 y/o.... walking tall..... Young 20 y/o wanting her purse... Do you REALLY think your walk will stop him??
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The point being made is some people look like easy victims regardless of age. People walking around with their faces in their smart phones who are oblivious to every thing around them. Or tourists who are pointing at things, taking photos, gawking also are easy victims.
 
Ina said:
When I was 13, my first husband applied for a SS# so he he claim me on 'his' taxes. But he never told me about it, and well after I divorced him, when I was 18, I was living in Boston,Mass, and I needed a SS# to get a job there. So I applied for one not knowing I already had one. After a couple of years, I came back to Texas, and went to work here. Within six month, I was contacted by the SS board, and I was told I needed to go in to see them.

That's when I was told you can't have two working SS#'s. So they gave me a plastic SS card. That was to signal everyone that I had two numbers. Trouble was that 'everyone' didn't know what the plastic card signified. So I left the darn thing at home whenever I could. No one wanted to accept it as ID anyway.

I've had a gun pointed at me twice. The first time I was working at a Stop & Go corner store, and I was robbed. I wasn't smart enough to be frightened, but I did realize that wasn't the safest job around. So I quit the next week.

Then at the age of 27, I got a job as a courier. I was bonded, lisencened, and my stepfather, (he was a state trooper), trained me to use a gun. I chose a Ladies Special. After three years, it finally happened, a man tried to hold me up, and I shot that little gun right through the pocket of my slacks. He was hit in the hip, and he went down immediately.

Most at of my life I was doing good to hold onto 115 pounds, much less fight a man of any age. So I do believe in self protection.

�� �� ��
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I am so, very proud of you Ina, bless your heart! You rock lady;)
 
Ameriscot said:
The point being made is some people look like easy victims regardless of age. People walking around with their faces in their smart phones who are oblivious to every thing around them. Or tourists who are pointing at things, taking photos, gawking also are easy victims.
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Well said, and it isn't just an age thing, very good point.
 
SB, logically, what is worse than a bullet......the injury or death it causes. I think the worse thing you could tell someone holding a gun to you and demanding that you get into their car IS what you say you will tell the person! Most likely, that will just piss him off and he will shoot you! A lot of folks who try to be brave can wind up dead. I say, "no thanks" to that. I might wind up dead anyway, but by pissing the dude off by telling him something like that in the first place.........I don't think helps. IMO. Don't know about you, but I'm 65 yrs. old, NOT in my 20's, 30's or 40's and built to try to fight someone off. And, not to get off-topic, but what is in red below...........if a person has a gun to you, how is a "concealed carry" going to help you. You got to be able to get it out!

Please remember, this is all IMO. Thanks

SeaBreeze said:
If there's a gun pointed at me, I'll have to make the decision at the time for sure...I can't know how I'll react until something like that happens. But I think as previously mentioned, if somebody with a gun demands I get in their car, I would tell them what to do with their gun before subjecting myself to something possibly much worse than a bullet in me. Of course concealed carry would solve all these issues, I just haven't decided to go that route yet.
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We'd all react differently I'm sure CR, and I respect whatever your choice may be, we all have to follow our gut in these situations and do what we feel is best. If I carry, the gun will be on my person, and ready for action if even suspected it was needed. I'm in my early 60s too, but I won't be taking a ride with anyone, or drinking draino in any 7-Elevens at someone's demand.
 
I really don't think most people keep a "big eye" on their surroundings that much. I don't know about others, but wife and I don't go into areas where that is totally necessary.
We've been on vacation, taking photos, pointing at things and gawking........nothings happened to us. Lucky or whatever, nothing has happened.

Ameriscot said:
The point being made is some people look like easy victims regardless of age. People walking around with their faces in their smart phones who are oblivious to every thing around them. Or tourists who are pointing at things, taking photos, gawking also are easy victims.
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Actually, I think it is funny just how some people can talk so MANCHO about dealing with something.........until the actual thing happens! I'm not "mancho", but would protect my wife, if necessary.

A male boater called my wife a "B" one time at a ramp (there is a story behind why he said it, but it wasn't her fault). I told him that I was going to call the Park Ranger and he said "go ahead and I'll kick his a**". Our boat was in the water, we quickly untied it, jumped in and took off. He was being way to mean for me to handle and MUCH younger and stronger looking!
 
Right CR, I think that is one of the first things I was taught was not to smart off, or antagonize someone. I know from the best that it takes a lot more brain then braun;)

I mean they are most likely a "bomb waiting to go off". I think there is a lot of instinct involved, maybe even what a person has been through in their life will tell how they may react in a stressful situation. Sometimes I really am grateful for the things I've walked through, I don't believe innocence is always bliss;)
 
Thanks, nwlady! I was an EMT in So California for a few years. From some of the "emergencies" I went to, it doesn't always pay trying to be brave!

nwlady said:
Right CR, I think that is one of the first things I was taught was not to smart off, or antagonize someone. I know from the best that it takes a lot more brain then braun;)

I mean they are most likely a "bomb waiting to go off". I think there is a lot of instinct involved, maybe even what a person has been through in their life will tell how they may react in a stressful situation. Sometimes I really am grateful for the things I've walked through, I don't believe innocence is always bliss;)
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ClassicRockr said:
I really don't think most people keep a "big eye" on their surroundings that much. I don't know about others, but wife and I don't go into areas where that is totally necessary.
We've been on vacation, taking photos, pointing at things and gawking........nothings happened to us. Lucky or whatever, nothing has happened.
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It's places like London, Bangkok, Sydney, Kampala, Rome where I am more vigilant. The island we are on now is very quiet in many areas but there are still places like evening outdoor markets when tourists are too busy bargaining with sellers and can get hit by pickpockets if they don't pay attention. Even some Buddhists can commit crimes.
 
Thanks, nwlady! I was an EMT in So California for a few years. From some of the "emergencies" I went to, it doesn't always pay trying to be brave!
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I thought you sounded as if you had some good training;) Some of what I've learned came from my brother & sister who both worked for local (Oregon anyway) law enforcement. Some of what I learned was just experiencing some things. The most important thing I ever learned was "always" remain teachable;) Thanks again for sharing, denise
 
Many years ago I did an early morning paper route in Detroit. Not a good thing at 4am. for a woman alone.

One morning I was walking to the car to get more papers and suddenly I had a gun in my face. He looked desperate (probably needed drug money, his eyes were very yellow). He said 'scream and I'll blow your f***ing head off. My first reaction was strangely to chuckle in disbelief. Then it hit me that he was serious. He wanted money and I had none. Who needs money at 4am? He kept asking why I was on the street even though I had my big Free Press bag over my shoulder. Anyway, I knew not to scream, cry or annoy him in any way. He didn't know what to do with me since I had no money, so he took me into a garden shed with the idea to rape me, but he was impotent. He finally let me go and told me not to turn around.

I was proud of myself for staying cool. But I saw his face every time I shut my eyes for about a month.
 

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