CMS to Help Hospitals Verify Patient Eligibility for Medicare - November 11, 2010

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced it is providing a limited view of the HIPAA Eligibility Transaction System (HETS). This will enable Medicare disproportionate share hospitals to determine whether inpatients eligible for Medicaid could also be eligible for Medicare Part A. Hospitals will also be able to verify Medicare enrollment for hospital inpatients, including whether a patient is entitled to Medicare benefits, if the patient is in a Medicare managed care plan, and if Medicare is primary or secondary insurance. To receive the HETS view, call the MCARE Help Desk Monday-Friday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 EST at 1-866-324-7315.