AdditonalInformationMPAFPRA08

Additional Information for Medicare Patient Assessment Form (MPAF) Data and

Supporting Regulations in 42 CFR Sections 413.337, 413.343, 424.32 and 483.20

• Is the SSN being collected?

Yes.

• Social Security numbers (SSN) may NOT be collected unless it is absolutely necessary (e.g., a statutory requirement). If you believe your collection must collect SSNs, you must provide the rationale for using the SSN as a data element. Please make sure to list and explain any public law, U.S. Code, Executive Order, or statute that mandates or authorizes the use of the SSN. Please include the following information:

• Why do you need to use the SSN?

CMS is authorized to collect information, including the social security number, under Sections 1102(a), 1819(b)(3)(A), 1819(f), 1919(b)(3)(A), 1919(f), and 1864 of the Social Security Act (the Act). Medicare and Medicaid participating SNFs and NFs are required to establish a database of patient assessment information, and to electronically transmit this information to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for payment purposes. The social security number is used to link the MPAF to the HICN on the claim and to link multiple MPAFs’ for he same beneficiary to ensure proper payment under the Skilled Nursing Facility Prospective Payment System.

• What will happen if you cannot use the SSN as a data element?

We will be unable to link the MPAF to the claim to ensure proper payment.

• Explain alternative data elements considered and why you do not consider them suitable replacements for the SSN.

As part of the ongoing development and implementation of the SNF PPS, we are looking at alternative data elements suitable to replace the SSN. A suitable replacement has not been identified at this time.

• What are the costs associated with alternatives?

The cost is unknown at this time.