A Reminder about CERT
The Comprehensive Error Rate Testing (CERT) Program was implemented by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to monitor the accuracy of claims processing by Medicare contractors. The CERT contractor reviews 200 randomly chosen claims processed by CGS each month.
We would like to remind you that should you receive a CERT request for records, or request for Additional Documentation you should submit all documentation to support the services billed, including progress note(s), lab results, operative reports, diagnostic tests, physician's orders, etc.
Medicare always requires a legible identifier for all services provided/ordered,
the method used shall be handwritten or an electronic signature (stamped signatures
are never acceptable). When a signature is illegible or missing the provider
who provided the services may submit an attestation statement with his documentation,
a sample attestation can be found on the "Signature
Tip Sheet."
When submitting documentation to support diagnostic tests, an order must be submitted along with the results. Keep in mind that while the lab request itself does not require a signature, there must be signed documentation of the intent to order in the patient's chart. Clarification of this requirement can be found in the Internet Only Manuals: Pub100-2, Chpt15, sect 80.6 et sub.