​​​​​​​Beginning January 1, 2026, the suitcase icon will be removed from member ID cards. Deployment of member ID cards starts December 1, 2025, so you may begin to see new and/or replacement member ID cards without the suitcase icon before 2026. Please be aware of this change when verifying member eligibility and benefits in the Provider Engage​​ment, Analytics & Reporting (PEAR) portal.

What's changing?

The suitcase icon has traditionally signified BlueCard® coverage, helping providers identify members eligible for out-of-area benefits. However, due to digital card limitations and the transition to modernized card designs, the suitcase icon (as shown below) will no longer appear on new or reissued member ID cards.​​

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What do providers need to know?

• No impact on benefits: Member benefits remain unchanged.

• Change to member ID cards: The suitcase icon will be removed from the member ID card and replaced with a product indicator (PPO, EPO, HMO, etc.).

• No mass reissuance: Only member ID cards that require a maintenance change will be updated; other members will keep their existing card until a change is required.

• Mixed card population: You may see a mix of member ID cards with or without the suitcase icon during the transition.

• Phase-out period: The transition may take a couple of years to complete.​
  

What do providers need to do?

• Be aware that new and replacement member ID cards will no longer include the suitcase icon.

• Continue to use the Practice Management application in the PEAR portal to confirm member eligibility.
  

For questions or more information, please call 1-800-676-BLUE (2583).
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