HIPAA Update:  File Your Extension - Prepare for Compliance

     AMC/NOMA reminds all members to file for your HIPAA extension.  Your practice must be in compliance with HIPAA transactions and codes by October 16, 2002 unless you file an extension. If you do not file the extension and are not in compliance by the deadline you are at risk of being excluded from the Medicare program. 

     Health and Human Services officials acknowledge that there is a great deal of concern in the health care system right now about completing the compliance plan correctly and on time. CMS has published a model compliance plan on its Web site that physicians can file electronically or download and mail the form (www.cms.gov/hipaa/hipaa2/ASCAForm.asp).  The model compliance plan is also a valuable tool as a guide for physicians as to what they need to do to make sure they will be in compliance.

     Complete the form on-line and receive a one-year extension to October 16, 2003.  The form has less than thirty questions and will take about ten minutes to complete.  It is an ideal way for health care organizations that haven't started compliance preparations to begin the implementation process.  The CMS site offers a template and information on how to prepare for compliance.  Those who submit the form electronically will receive an instant confirmation and a confirmation number as proof that an extension has been granted.

      Healthcare providers and suppliers who conduct business electronically are urged to consider steps to upgrade their software to conform to the new standards.  This process may be done independently or through a commercial vendor.  Health providers can also use a commercial clearinghouse or billing service that is knowledgeable about the new requirements.

     Medicare physicians should also note that in 2004 Medicare will become paperless.  If you are not HIPAA compliant you will not be able to send claims to Medicare.  Healthcare professionals without Internet access should call the CMS at 410-786-3000 (not a toll free number) or 1-800-Medicare to ask about receiving a form.  If you should mail the extension form, send it by certified mail and keep the receipt as proof of compliance.

Mail forms to:  Model Compliance Plans, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, PO Box 8040, Baltimore, Maryland, 21244-8040            

To file electronically and/or obtain more information go to www.cms.gov/hipaa/hipaa2/ASCAForm.asp