Appeals of Quality Bonus Payment Determinations (CMS-10346)
Extension without change of a currently approved collection
No
Regular
12/18/2020
Requested
Previously Approved
36 Months From Approved
04/30/2021
20
20
160
160
0
0
Section 1853(o) of the Social Security Act requires us to make Quality Bonus Payments (QBPs) to Medicare Advantage (MA) organizations that achieve performance rating scores of at least 4 stars under a five star rating system. Beginning in 2012, the star ratings we assign for purposes of QBPs under section 1858(o) of the Act will directly affect the monthly payment amount MA organizations receive from us under their contracts. In effect, this information collection request addresses a review process through which MA organizations may seek review of determinations governing their star rating ("QBP status") when the MA organization's rating is less than 4 stars.
Regarding the appeals process, MA organizations have 5 calendar days from the date of CMS' release of its QBP determinations to request a technical report from CMS explaining the development of their QBP status. The technical report will be provided in writing by electronic mail to the MA organization and CMS within 30 days of CMS' receipt of the organization's request for the report by the technical report contractor. If, after reviewing the technical report, the MA organization believes that CMS was incorrect in its QBP determination, within 7 calendar days, the MA organization may request an appeal to be conducted by a hearing officer designated by CMS. The hearing officer's decision would be final and binding on both the MA organization and CMS. The hearing officer will be required to issue his/her decision on or before May 15 of the year preceding the year in which the plans for which the QBP is to be applied will be offered.
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.