What does the prefix "20" in front of a social security number on a medical record indicate?

The prefix "20" in front of a social security number on a medical record indicates that the individual is a sponsor. In this context, the term "sponsor" typically refers to a person who enables another individual, often a dependent or a child, to receive certain benefits, including access to healthcare services.

The use of "20" is part of a coding or numbering system used to categorize various relationships in documentation or records, particularly in scenarios where sponsorship is involved, such as in military or government programs that extend benefits to dependents. This prefix helps healthcare providers and administrative staff quickly identify the nature of the relationship to the primary holder of the social security number.

Understanding this coding system is crucial in medical records management as it aids in proper identification and processing of claims, ensuring that patients receive the services they are eligible for under their sponsor's plan.