CMS Notice on Extension of Physician Certifications and Recertifications for Skilled Nursing Facilities
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comments on its proposal to extend the existing information collection requirement for Physician Certifications and Recertifications in Skilled Nursing Facilities. This collection is required under Section 1814(a) of the Social Security Act to ensure that Medicare Part A payments for post-hospital extended care services in SNFs are only made when a physician or authorized practitioner certifies that the beneficiary requires a skilled nursing facility level of care on a daily basis. The documentation must be completed periodically to confirm ongoing medical necessity. CMS estimates 3,882,413 respondents will submit 3,882,413 responses annually, resulting in a total burden of 480,957 hours. Comments must be received by June 5, 2026.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Extension of OMB control number 0938-0454 for Physician Certifications/Recertifications in SNFs
- Annual burden remains at 480,957 hours for 3,882,413 responses
- Public comment period ends on June 5, 2026
+ 2 more changes with Pro
Obligations
What this law requires
Physicians or authorized practitioners must certify that a beneficiary requires skilled nursing facility level of care on a daily basis before Medicare Part A payment can be made for post-hospital extended care services
Physicians or authorized practitioners must periodically recertify that a beneficiary continues to require skilled nursing facility level of care at appropriate intervals
Skilled nursing facilities must maintain physician certification and recertification documentation as a condition for Medicare Part A payment eligibility
CMS must obtain Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval for the physician certification and recertification information collection before conducting or sponsoring the collection
CMS must accept public comments on the proposed extension of the physician certification and recertification information collection through June 5, 2026