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The compliance section within Medicaid is crucial to ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of the program. Medicaid compliance refers to adherence to federal and state regulations, policies, and procedures that govern the provision of healthcare services to eligible individuals. The goal is to safeguard the program against fraud, waste, and abuse, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and that services are delivered appropriately to those in need.
To ensure the proper delivery of healthcare services and reimbursement under the CNMI Medicaid Program, all providers must enter into a provider agreement with the CNMI Medicaid program. This agreement outlines key responsibilities and requirements designed to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the Medicaid system, protect patient rights, and ensure compliance with program regulations. Below are the key obligations providers must adhere to in order to serve CNMI Medicaid beneficiaries and receive reimbursement for their services.
Providers must retain accurate records to document the services provided to patients and, upon request, share relevant information with the Medicaid Agency or the Secretary, including details about services rendered and payments claimed. They are required to maintain the confidentiality of patient information, except when needed for Medicaid or program administration. Additionally, providers must ensure they do not discriminate against individuals seeking services based on race, sex, religion, color, national origin, or disability, and must not charge patients more than the payment limits outlined in the state plan.
The CMA Provider Agreements for CNMI and Guam providers expire at the end of each fiscal year. For U.S. Mainland providers, the agreement offers the option of a one-year term or a five-year term. The effective date of each agreement will be determined based on when the provider submits the completed provider agreement application with their required documents.
At the Commonwealth Medicaid Agency (CMA), we use the prior authorization process to ensure that certain healthcare services, procedures, or medications are medically necessary and meet our program’s specific guidelines before they are provided. This process requires healthcare providers to obtain approval from the CMA before delivering these services or treatments.
The purpose of prior authorization is to ensure that Medicaid resources are used efficiently and effectively, aligning care with established medical standards. It helps us manage healthcare costs by preventing unnecessary or inappropriate treatments, while ensuring that recipients receive the most appropriate care for their needs.
Through prior authorization, we aim to promote communication between providers and the CMA, ensuring that both parties are aligned on the necessity of services. This process supports our commitment to providing high-quality, cost-effective healthcare for all Medicaid recipients.