In November of 2000, CMS launched the
Participating Physicians Directory on www.medicare.gov. This
particular directory was created to provide beneficiaries with the
names, addresses, and specialties of Medicare participating
physicians who have agreed to accept assignment on all Medicare
claims and covered services. CMS is adding information from already
existing sources; in addition CMS wants to collect a new data
element "Accepting New Patients Indicator" which is essential to a
beneficiary's search for a physician.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.