The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently named Palmetto, GBA, the new Medicare contractor for Jurisdiction 1, which includes California. Although the final cutover to the new carrier doesn’t happen until September 2, Palmetto’s “early boarding” program begins May 1 and will allow current electronic claim submitters to familiarize themselves with the new system. CMA encourages physicians to take advantage of this opportunity and avoid the last minute rush and unnecessary payment delays.

During the early boarding program, Medicare claims will continue to be paid by the current Medicare contractor, NHIC. Claims submitted to Palmetto will be forwarded to NHIC for processing. Thus, when submitting claims to Palmetto during the early boarding program, you should continue to use NHIC’s contractor number.

The early boarding program is open only to physicians who currently submit electronic claims, either directly or via a clearinghouse. To participate, you must first complete Palmetto’s EDI application, which is available at the Palmetto website, http://www.palmettogba.com/j1. Physicians should also contact their clearinghouses to ensure that they are prepared for the transition.

If you currently receive payments electronically, you will also have to complete a new EFT authorization before the final cutover on September 2. We encourage you to do so as soon as possible to ensure that your payments are not interrupted. EFT authorization forms are also available at the Palmetto website.

If you need assistance, Palmetto’s Technology Support Center is available to answer EDI-related questions Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Pacific Time at 866/749-4301. Questions can also be submitted via e-mail to medicare.edi@PalmettoGBA.com.

CMA continues to work closely with high-level contacts at Palmetto and CMS to ensure a smooth transition.

Click Here for a letter to physicians from Palmetto on this issue.

Contact: Frank Navarro, 916/551-2046 or fnavarro@cmanet.org.