| West Virginia Oncology Society |
| While looking forward to the signs of spring, one spring event taking place most are not too excited about is the resumption of the Medicare Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) implementation. After a delay of three months and resolution of the protests by the unsuccessful contract bidders, Viant, Inc. and PRG Schultz, USA, Inc, RAC contractors have been given the green light to continue or begin implementation in 23 states on March 1, 2009. According to the CMS website expansion strategy for the permanent RAC program will have RACs operating in twenty-three states by March 1, 2009, and the remaining twenty-seven states and the District of Columbia beginning August 1, 2009 or later. By October 1, 2008, the following states were expected to have operating RACs:
Montana, New Hampshire, New York, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming. Beginning March 1, 2009, California, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Texas will also be up and running. Then, beginning August 1, 2009 or later, RAC’s will be implemented in the remaining states:
Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. What are RAC’s? How do RAC’s get Paid? Who are the RAC’s? What is the Process for an RAC Audit? Is there any Limit to the Number of Records the RAC’s can Audit? What should I be Doing Now to Prepare for an Audit? Conclusion Having knowledge of who the RAC’s are and what to expect coupled with planning and preparing for a RAC audit may help your spring season be more enjoyable. Without a doubt there is some work to be done, but don’t forget slow down and take time to smell the flowers. |
RAC Resource Center
| RAC Auditors Given Green Light! |