Abstract: A method of providing healthcare-related services to a patient is provided. The method includes electronically obtaining patient health information stored on a card presented by the patient. The method also includes electronically obtaining patient insurance information stored on the card presented by the patient. The method also includes using the insurance information to contact an insurance carrier to verify that the patient's insurance coverage is active.

Abstract: A method of providing healthcare-related services to a patient is provided. The method includes electronically obtaining patient insurance information stored on a card presented by the patient. The method also includes using the insurance information to contact an insurance carrier to receive a binding commitment of what payment the insurance carrier will make for provision of the healthcare-related services.

Abstract: The presently disclosed embodiments provide a medical information card that provides at least two functions. First, the card stores pertinent medical information relating to the person to whom the card was issued. Secondly, the card sores information relating to insurance coverage held by the card owner, with information that will facilitate verification of active coverage, adjudication of insurance claims, and payment for the healthcare-related services. Thirdly, the card protects against fraud and errant claims that could result in significant penalties, loss of license or prosecution of a healthcare provider. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art after reviewing the present disclosure that the presently disclosed embodiments could also be used to implement these functions separately rather than collectively, although the invention has particular utility when providing these functions collectively. A variety of methods that may be implemented using the card are also disclosed.