REMINDER - Dial-up Customers Using the 717 Area Code Modem Telephone Number

EDI trading partners still connecting to Novitas via the former 717 area code modem telephone number will no longer be able to connect for claim submission and report retrieval as of 12:01 AM Eastern Time (ET) on Friday, August 29, 2014.

The majority of our trading partners have already made these changes, and we appreciate your assistance with this effort.  Currently, customers still connecting through the 717 area code mode telephone number may already be experiencing:

• Inability to connect for claim submission, remittance and/or report retrieval.


• Decreased connection quality.


• Frequent connection time-outs.


• If your modem is more than four years old, you may need to purchase a new dial-up modem in order to connect.

Effective August 29, 2014 at 12:01 AM ET, dial-up trading partners must transition to the new number, 904-371-9510.  We have found that customers who have made the switch to the new dial-up number may need to down speed their modem if they are having difficulties connecting.

Customers who have not changed to the new connections should speak to their software vendor immediately to resolve any connection issues you are experiencing.   Additionally, trading partners who are located in the 717 area code will need long distance phone service in order to connect.

If you have questions regarding this change, please contact an EDI Analyst at the numbers listed below.

EDI Services
1-877-235-8073 (JL)
1-855-252-8782 (JH)
www.novitas-solutions.com

Dial-up Customers Using the 717 Area Code Modem Telephone Number

Dial-up Customers Using the 717 Area Code Modem Telephone Number

EDI trading partners still connecting to Novitas via the former 717 area code modem telephone number will no longer be able to connect for claim submission and report retrieval as of 12:01 AM Eastern Time (ET) on Friday, August 29, 2014.

The majority of our trading partners have already made these changes, and we appreciate your assistance with this effort.  Currently, customers still connecting through the 717 area code mode telephone number may already be experiencing:

• Inability to connect for claim submission, remittance and/or report retrieval.


• Decreased connection quality.


• Frequent connection time-outs.


• If your modem is more than four years old, you may need to purchase a new dial-up modem in order to connect.

Effective August 29, 2014 at 12:01 AM ET, dial-up trading partners must transition to the new number, 904-371-9510.  We have found that customers who have made the switch to the new dial-up number may need to down speed their modem if they are having difficulties connecting.

Customers who have not changed to the new connections should speak to their software vendor immediately to resolve any connection issues you are experiencing.   Additionally, trading partners who are located in the 717 area code will need long distance phone service in order to connect.

If you have questions regarding this change, please contact an EDI Analyst at the numbers listed below.

EDI Services
1-877-235-8073 (JL)
1-855-252-8782 (JH)
www.novitas-solutions.com

UPDATE - Attention Part B EDI Customers – Incorrect 277CA Rejections

UPDATE - Attention Part B EDI Customers – Incorrect 277CA Rejections

UPDATE: All affected files from July 6, 2014 that were denied/rejected on the 277CA in error for invalid diagnosis code have been reprocessed and the corrected 277CA files have been sent.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

ISSUED: Customers who submitted claims on Sunday, July 6, 2014 between 6:00 AM Eastern Time (ET) and 7:00PM ET may have had their files denied/rejected on the 277CA for invalid diagnosis code in error.  You are not required to resubmit these files.  Please disregard the 277CA dated July 6, 2014.  You will receive a corrected 277CA shortly.  We will update this message when the affected files have been reprocessed and the corrected 277CA files have been sent.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

EDI Services
1-877-235-8073 (JL)
1-855-252-8782 (JH)
www.novitas-solutions.com

Attention Part B EDI Customers – Incorrect 277CA Rejections

Attention Part B EDI Customers – Incorrect 277CA Rejections

Customers who submitted claims on Sunday, July 6, 2014 between 6:00 AM Eastern Time (ET) and 7:00PM ET may have had their files denied/rejected on the 277CA for invalid diagnosis code in error.  You are not required to resubmit these files.  Please disregard the 277CA dated July 6, 2014.  You will receive a corrected 277CA shortly.  We will update this message when the affected files have been reprocessed and the corrected 277CA files have been sent.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

EDI Services
1-877-235-8073 (JL)
1-855-252-8782 (JH)
www.novitas-solutions.com

Medicare Part B News - Jurisdiction H

Medicare News

Delay in Implementing NCD for Single Chamber and Dual Chamber Cardiac Pacemakers

On August 13, 2013, the CMS issued a final decision memorandum regarding coverage of implanted permanent cardiac pacemakers, single chamber or dual chamber, and determined they are reasonable and necessary for the treatment of non-reversible symptomatic bradycardia due to sinus node dysfunction and second and/or third degree atrioventricular block. On February 6, 2014, CMS directed Medicare Administrative Contractors to implement national coverage determination (NCD) 20.8.3 on July 7, 2014, for claims with dates of service on and after August 13, 2013, for those beneficiaries who meet the specific coverage criteria. See MLN Matters® Article MM8525.

There is a temporary delay in implementing NCD 20.8.3. CMS will advise you of the new implementation date in the near future.

Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation

December 8-9, 2014, Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, Bethesda, MD

Co-hosted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and AcademyHealth, Co-sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Veterans Affairs (VA)

The Planning Committee selected the Theme of “Transforming Health Systems to Optimize Individual and Population Health” for the 7^th Annual Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation. Now, more than ever before, the integration of evidence-based practices and service delivery has the capacity to impact healthcare delivery and population health. The Abstract Submission topics and conference structure has been planned to focus on the highest priority science – current and future -- to help realize this goal.

Abstract Submission Deadline: August 8, 2014

Version 5010 SmartXfr™ Telecommunications Server Updates Scheduled for July 06, 2014

Version 5010 SmartXfr™ Telecommunications Server Updates Scheduled for July 06, 2014

On Sunday, July 06, 2014, from 6:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) until 12:00 Midnight ET, the Version 5010 SmartXfr™ telecommunications server may be unavailable due to system maintenance.  If you submit your claims during this time and are not able to connect, please try to resend at a later time.  We apologize for the inconvenience.

EDI Services
1-877-235-8073 (JL)
1-855-252-8782 (JH)
www.novitas-solutions.com

Access to Care 2012 Research Files Now Available.

Important News …

Access to Care 2012 Research Files Now Available.  CMS is pleased to announce the availability of the 2012 Access to Care research files.  First time MCBS users interested in these data, please contact CMS’ Research Data Assistance Center (ResDAC) (http://www.resdac.org) to get more information about accessing MCBS data files.  Current users, please contact ResDAC to update your current Data Use Agreement and for instructions regarding payment submission.  For more information about the MCBS Access to Care research files please visit the MCBS website at www.cms.hhs.gov/mcbs.

Other Updates …

• Access to Care 2012 Supplemental Files Available.  CMS has separated the following supplemental RICs from the standard 2012 Access to Care files: RicKN (Beneficiary Knowledge & Information Needs), RicRX (Medicare Drug Coverage Knowledge/Experience) and RicPA (Patient Activation).  To obtain these files as part of your 2012 Access to Care request, please note the specific supplemental file you wish to obtain on your DUA request.  Supplemental files will be made available to approved researchers purchasing the standard Access to Care files at no additional charge.

• User List Subscription Actions.  If you would like to add an email address or have colleagues interested in being added to this user list/email distribution, please sign up via the following link: (https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USCMS/subscriber/new?topic_id=USCMS_645).

REMINDER - Important edit changes for Professional claims effective July 6, 2014

REMINDER - Important edit changes for Professional claims effective July 6, 2014

CMS issued Change Request (CR) 8571 edit spreadsheet changes for Professional electronic claims. The Professional edit changes below will be implemented the evening of July 6, 2014.

REVISED EDITS
X222.157.2300.CLM.010  -  Added new message IK304=7 “Segment not in proper sequence”

EDI Services
1-877-235-8073 (JL)
1-855-252-8782 (JH)
www.novitas-solutions.com

Submit Your Comments on CEHRT NPRM by July 21

NPRM Comment Period Now Open: Submit by July 21, 2014

CMS and ONC invite the public to submit comments on the recently released notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would allow providers participating in the EHR Incentive Programs to use the 2011 Edition or 2014 Edition of certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT) for the 2014 reporting year. 

 

Comments must be received by July 21, 2014 to be considered.

 

About the NPRM

If finalized, the proposal would allow providers to meet Stage 1 or Stage 2 of meaningful use with EHRs certified to the 2011 or 2014 Edition criteria or a combination of both Editions. 

Beginning in 2015, all eligible providers would be required to report using 2014 Edition CEHRT.

 

2014 Participation Options

If finalized, this proposal will provide participation options that vary by a provider’s stage of meaningful use and by their CEHRT Edition selection.

2011 CEHRT Providers in Stage 1 or 2: 2013 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2013 CQMs

Combination of 2011 & 2014 CEHRT Providers in Stage 1: 2013 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2013 CQMs; or 2014 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2014 CQMs Providers in Stage 2: 2013 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2013 CQMs; or 2014 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2014 CQMs; or 2014 Definition Stage 2 objectives and 2014 CQMs

2014 CEHRT Providers in Stage 1: 2014 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2014 CQMs Providers in Stage 2: 2014 Definition Stage 2 objectives and 2014 CQMs; or 2014 Definition Stage 1 objectives and 2014 CQMs

 

Extending Stage 2

The proposed rule also includes a provision that would formalize CMS and ONC’s recommended timeline to extend Stage 2 through 2016. If finalized, the earliest a provider would participate in Stage 3 of meaningful use would be 2017.

For More Information

Visit the CMS Newsroom to read the press release about the NPRM

Annual Update: 2014 Eligible Professional eCQM Specifications

CMS Posts 2014 Eligible Professional Electronic Clinical Quality Measure Update

The annual update of the 2014 electronic clinical quality measures (eCQMs) for eligible professionals and corresponding specifications for electronic reporting is now available. CMS updates the specifications annually to ensure that the measure representation and recent code system versions reflect the best understanding of standards and logic, and remain relevant and actionable within the clinical care setting.  In addition, some of the non-substantive changes to the measures were made based on input from the provider and vendor communities.

 

The eCQM specifications are used for multiple programs, such as the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS), to align with the EHR Incentive Programs and reduce the burden on providers to report quality measures. 

 

CMS strongly encourages the implementation and use of the updated electronic specifications of the CQMs since they include updated terminologies, logic corrections, and intent clarifications. However, CMS will accept all versions of the CQMs for the EHR Incentive Programs, beginning with those finalized in the December 4, 2012 CMS-ONC Interim Final Rule.

 

Please note, the 2014 updated specifications cannot be used prior to the 2015 EHR Reporting Period.

 

Updated 2014 CQM Resources

To help eligible professionals navigate the updated eCQMs, several resources are available on the eCQM Library page.  Additional eCQM file formats and access to past versions for side by side comparisons are available on the Meaningful Use tab of the United States Health Information Knowledge base(USHIK).

 

EHR CQM Certification

To participate in the EHR Incentive Programs for 2014, a system must at least be certified to the specifications published in the December 2012 Interim Final Rule.

Eligible Professionals: Deadline to Submit Hardship Exception Applications Approaching

Eligible Professionals Must Submit Hardship Exception Applications by July 1, 2014

 

Are you a Medicare provider who was unable to successfully demonstrate meaningful use for 2013? CMS is accepting applications for hardship exceptions to avoid the upcoming Medicare payment adjustment for the 2015 reporting year.

 

Payment adjustments for the Medicare EHR Incentive Program will begin on January 1, 2015 for eligible professionals.

 

However, you can avoid the adjustment by completing a hardship exception application and providing supporting documentation that proves demonstrating meaningful use would be a significant hardship for you. CMS will review applications to determine whether or not you are granted a hardship exception.

 

CMS has posted hardship exception applications on the EHR website for:

• Eligible professionals


• Eligible professionals submitting multiple National Provider Identifiers (NPIs)

Applications for the 2015 payment adjustments are due July 1, 2014 for eligible professionals.  If approved, the exception is valid for one year.

 

New Hardship Exception Tipsheets

You can also avoid payment adjustments by successfully demonstrating meaningful use prior to the payment adjustment. Tipsheets are available on the CMS website that outline when eligible professionals must demonstrate meaningful use in order to avoid the payment adjustments.

 

Want more information about the EHR Incentive Programs?

Make sure to visit the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs website for the latest news and updates on the EHR Incentive Programs.

CMS NPRM - EHR Certification Flexibility for 2014; Extends Stage 2

CMS and ONC Release NPRM Allowing CEHRT Flexibility and Extending Stage 2

 

Today, CMS and ONC released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would allow providers participating in the EHR Incentive Programs to use the 2011 Edition of certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT) for calendar and fiscal year 2014. 

 

The NPRM will grant flexibility to providers who are experiencing difficulties fully implementing 2014 Edition CEHRT to attest this year. The proposed rule would allow providers to use EHRs that have been certified under the 2011 Edition, a combination of the 2011 and 2014 Editions, or the 2014 Edition.

 

Beginning in 2015, all eligible providers would be required to report using 2014 Edition CEHRT.

 

2014 Participation Options

Under this proposal, valid only for the 2014 reporting year, providers would be able to use 2011 Edition CEHRT for either Stage 1 or Stage 2, would have the option to attest to the 2013 definition of meaningful use core and menu objectives, and use the 2013 definition CQMs.

 

Providers currently working on Stage 1 in 2014 would be able to demonstrate:

• Stage 1 (2013 Definition) using 2011 Edition CEHRT, or using a combination of 2011 and 2014 Edition CEHRT; or


• Stage 1 (2014+ Definition) using 2014 Edition CEHRT.

Providers currently working on Stage 2 in 2014 would be able to demonstrate:

• Stage 1 (2013 Definition) using 2011 Edition CEHRT, or using a combination of 2011 and 2014 Edition CEHRT;


• Stage 1 (2014+ Definition) using 2014 Edition CEHRT; or


• Stage 2 (2014+ Definition) using 2014 Edition CEHRT.

Extending Stage 2

The proposed rule also includes a provision that would formalize CMS and ONC’s recommended timeline to extend Stage 2 through 2016. If finalized, the earliest a provider would participate in Stage 3 of meaningful use would be 2017.

For More Information

Visit the CMS Newsroom to read the press release about the NPRM.

Reminder: Join CMS on 5/29 to Learn More about Stage 2

Register for the May 29th National Provider Call on 2014 Stage 2 Meaningful Use for Eligible Professionals

 

Are you an eligible professional participating in Stage 2 of Meaningful Use? Join CMS on May 29 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET for a National Provider Call to learn more about Stage 2 requirements, reporting options, and data submission processes for eligible professionals in 2014.

 

The call will include detailed information for eligible professionals who are required to meet Stage 2 criteria in 2014 on completion of at least two program years under Stage 1 of meaningful use in the EHR Incentive Programs.

 

CMS experts will answer questions submitted prior to the call as well as respond to participant questions during a live Q&A session.  Please email your questions no later than May 21 to be considered.

Agenda

The following topics will be discussed on the call:

• Overview of Stage 2 of Meaningful Use


• Reporting


• Data Submission


• Answers to Submitted Questions


• Live Q&A Session

A link to the slide presentation will be posted to prior to the call.

 

Registration

To register for this MLN Connects National Provider Call, please visit the CMS MLN Connects Upcoming Calls registration website. Registration will close at 12:00 p.m. ET on the day of the call or when available space has been filled; no exceptions will be made, so please register early.

 

More Information

Visit the Stage 2 page to learn more.

 

Want more information about the EHR Incentive Programs?

Make sure to visit the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs website for the latest news and updates on the EHR Incentive Programs.

Stage 2 Attestation User Guides Now Available

Review Steps for Submitting Stage 2 Meaningful Use Data through the Attestation System

 

Are you preparing to submit Stage 2 meaningful use data for the Medicare EHR Incentive Program? If so, CMS has recently posted the following step-by-step guides to help navigate the CMS Attestation System:

• Stage 2 Attestation User Guide for Eligible Professionals


• Stage 2 Attestation User Guide for Eligible Hospitals and CAHs

These guides provide instructions and important information that you will need in order to successfully attest, as well as helpful tips and screenshots to walk you through the process.

Note: While all providers begin their registration through the CMS Registration & Attestation System, Medicaid eligible professionals and Medicaid-only eligible hospitals must attest through their State Medicaid Agency’s website. Please visit the Medicaid State Information pageto learn more.

 

Additional Stage 2 Resources

CMS has additional resources to help ensure your attestation will be successful:

• Stage 2 Attestation Worksheet for Eligible Professionals


• Stage 2 Attestation Worksheet for Eligible Hospitals and CAHs


• Stage 2 Meaningful Use Specification Sheet Table of Contents for Eligible Professionals


• Stage 2 Meaningful Use Specification Sheet Table of Contents for Eligible Hospitals and CAHs

For More Information

Visit the Registration and Attestation and Stage 2 pages for more information on how to successfully demonstrate meaningful use.

Join CMS on 5/29 to Learn More about Stage 2

Register for the May 29th National Provider Call on 2014 Stage 2 Meaningful Use for Eligible Professionals

 

Are you an eligible professional participating in Stage 2 Meaningful Use? Join CMS on May 29 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET for a National Provider Call to learn more about Stage 2 requirements, reporting options, and data submission processes for eligible professionals in 2014.

 

The call will include detailed information for eligible professionals who are required to meet Stage 2 criteria in 2014 on completion of at least two program years under Stage 1 of Meaningful Use in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs.

 

CMS experts will answer questions submitted prior to the call as well as respond to participant questions during a live Q&A session.  Please email your questions no later than May 21 to be considered.

 

Agenda

The following topics will be discussed on the call:

• Overview of Stage 2 of Meaningful Use


• Reporting


• Data Submission


• Answers to Submitted Questions


• Live Q&A Session

A link to the slide presentation will be posted to prior to the call.

 

Registration

To register for this MLN Connects National Provider Call, please visit the CMS MLN Connects Upcoming Calls registration website. Registration will close at 12:00 p.m. ET on the day of the call or when available space has been filled; no exceptions will be made, so please register early.

 

More Information

Visit the Stage 2 page to learn more.

 

Want more information about the EHR Incentive Programs?

Make sure to visit the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs website for the latest news and updates on the EHR Incentive Programs.

Reminder: EHR Hardship Exception Applications for Eligible Professionals

Eligible Professionals Must Submit Hardship Exception Applications by July 1, 2014

Are you a Medicare provider who was unable to successfully demonstrate meaningful use for 2013 due to circumstances beyond your control? CMS is accepting applications for hardship exceptions to avoid the upcoming Medicare payment adjustment for the 2013 reporting year.

 

Payment adjustments for the Medicare EHR Incentive Program will begin on January 1, 2015 for eligible professionals.

 

However, you can avoid the adjustment by completing a hardship exception application and providing supporting documentation that proves demonstrating meaningful use would be a significant hardship for you. CMS will review applications to determine whether or not you are granted a hardship exception.

 

CMS has posted hardship exception applications on the EHR website for:

• Eligible professionals


• Eligible professionals submitting multiple National Provider Identifiers (NPIs)

Applications for the 2015 payment adjustments are due July 1, 2014 for eligible professionals.  If approved, the exception is valid for one year.

 

New Hardship Exception Tipsheets

You can also avoid payment adjustments by successfully demonstrating meaningful use prior to the payment adjustment. Tipsheets are available on the CMS website that outline when eligible professionals must demonstrate meaningful use in order to avoid the payment adjustments.

 

Want more information about the EHR Incentive Programs?

Make sure to visit the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs website for the latest news and updates on the EHR Incentive Programs.