After implementing a fingerprint-based background check for certain healthcare providers in August, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) this month released some additional information agencies need to know going forward.
Several years in the making, CMS finally established a fingerprint screening process August 6, 2014 for all individuals with a 5% or greater ownership interest in a provider or supplier that falls into the high risk category and is currently enrolled in Medicare, or has submitted an initial enrollment application.
While currently being conducted in phases, providers and suppliers will receive notification of the fingerprint requirements from their Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs), though initially, not all providers and suppliers in the “high” screening category will be a part of the first phase of the fingerprint-background check requirement, CMS stated in a recent update.
Providers and suppliers who do receive notification of the requirements will then have 30 days from the date of the letter to be fingerprinted.
Generally, the individual who receives summons to be fingerprinted will be required to do so only once, CMS notes, however, the federal agency reserves the right to request additional fingerprints if needed.
Accurate Biometrics of Chicago was awarded the fingerprint-based background check contract by CMS on July 8. CMS directs all those required to undergo fingerprinting to contact the Chicago-based company prior to being fingerprinted to ensure the results are accurately submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and property returned to CMS.
Written by Jason Oliva
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