The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is reporting these events, updates and deadlines for providers and hospitals on payment issues concerning Medicare and Medicaid. Read the latest MLN Connects Weekly Provider eNews.
Announcements
MIPS Reporting Deadlines Fast Approaching: 10 Things to Do and Know
Deadlines are fast approaching if you plan to submit data for the 2017 Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) performance period. The two key dates are:
- March 16 at 8 pm ET for group reporting via the CMS web interface
- March 31 for all other MIPS reporting, including via the Quality Payment Program website
Read the article for 10 things you need to do and know if you are an eligible clinician.
New Option for Submission of Medicare Cost Reports
CMS is committed to decreasing the time and money you spend on CMS-mandated compliance and increasing the number of tasks you can do electronically. Beginning in March, you will have the option to submit Medicare cost reports through a new national web portal. The Medicare Cost Report e-Filing system will be available for cost reporting periods ending on or after December 31, 2017. We will offer training during March and April.
Low Volume Appeals Settlement Process
On February 5, CMS started accepting Expressions of Interest for the Low Volume Appeals (LVA) settlement process. The LVA settlement option is for providers, physicians, and suppliers (appellants) with:
- Fewer than 500 appeals pending at the Office of Medicare Hearing and Appeals and the Medicare Appeals Council at the Departmental Appeals Board, combined, as of November 3, 2017
- A total billed amount of $9,000 or less per appeal
If you are interested in participating in LVA to address your pending appeals:
- Visit the Low Volume Appeals Initiative webpage
- Register for the Medicare Learning Network call on March 13
Medicare Learning Network Publications & Multimedia
Medicare Secondary Payer Booklet – Reminder
The Medicare Secondary Payer Booklet is available. Learn about:
- When Medicare may pay first or second
- Conditional payments
- Coordination of benefits rules
- The Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center’s role
Health Professional Shortage Area Physician Bonus Program Fact Sheet — Revised
A revised Health Professional Shortage Area Physician Bonus Program Fact Sheet is available. Learn about:
- Definition of a Health Professional Shortage Area
- Bonus payment
Telehealth Services Booklet — Revised
A revised Telehealth Services Booklet is available. Learn about:
- Originating sites
- Distant site practitioners
- Billing and payment for professional services and the originating site facility fee