New rule requires prescribers to register with CMS if they write scripts for patients with Medicare Part D coverage

According to a new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services mandate, health care providers and other health care professionals who write prescriptions for Medicare Part D members have until June 1, 2015, to apply for an approved prescriber status or submit a valid opt-out affidavit. This is required of providers and other eligible health professionals to ensure continued prescription coverage under Medicare Part D for their patients.

Although these changes will not be enforced until Dec. 1, 2015, providers should submit their completed Medicare prescriber applications or opt-out affidavits to their Medicare administrative contractors on or before June 1, 2015. This will prevent their patients’ prescription drug claims from being denied by their Part D plans, beginning Dec. 1, 2015.

Part D requirements
For details on the Part D application requirements, visit the CMS website by clicking here.**

Medicare administrative contractor
If you have any questions, contact your Medicare administrative contractor, or MAC, at their toll-free number. You can find your Medicare administrative contractor by visiting the Review Contractor Directory Interactive Map.**

Applying for Medicare Part D approved provider status
You may submit your application electronically, using the Internet-based Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership System,** or by completing the paper CMS-855I or CMS-855O application, which is available by accessing the CMS Forms List.** Note: An application fee is not required as part of your application submission.

Submitting an opt-out affidavit for Medicare Part D
If you want to opt out of Medicare, you must submit an opt-out affidavit to the MAC within your specific jurisdiction. Your opt-out information must be current. (An affidavit must be completed every two years and a National Provider Identifier is required.) For more information on the opt-out process, refer to article SE1311 in MLN Matters^®, titled “Opting out of Medicare,” by clicking here.**

**Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan does not control this website or endorse its general content.