CMS introduced an updated Medicare Cost Report e-Filing system (“MCReF”) and related templates to allow Medicare Part A providers the ability to electronically file to their Medicare contractor supporting documentation in addition to their cost report for fiscal years ending on or after December 31, 2017. This allows the contractor to receive successful MCReF submissions immediately, advise the provider if the filings are complete and begin their 30-day cost report review and acceptance process.
Since 2019, CMS has required providers to submit their cost reports electronically, but many providers had to continue to submit documentation to complete the cost report process by mail or through a bulk upload. CMS has developed three electronic templates that will create digital versions of documentation for Medicaid Eligible Days, bad debt and charity care charges (Exhibits 3A, 3B and 3C respectively of the cost report). According to CMS, the templates will guide data entry according to specifications and generate warning messages if the provider’s entries are not filled out appropriately. By submitting files using these templates, MCReF can check the files to ensure adherence to the cost reporting instructions and give providers immediate feedback about potential problems with their documentation. CMS believes that utilizing the standardized electronic format will accelerate cost report acceptance and tentative settlement.
CMS will hold its first webinar on the MCReF updates on February 14, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. EST. Register for the webinar here.
If you have any questions regarding the MCReF updates, please contact:
- Sue Andersen at (301) 785-3996 or sandersen@hallrender.com; or
- Your primary Hall Render contact.
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