decisionhealth Newsletters, Answer Books - 2008 Issue 5 (May)
Medicare_Carriers_Manual / 7551 / 7551
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Article Overview
This Medicare Carriers Manual article describes how the MEDPARD directory should be compiled, organized, formatted, distributed, and reported. It is aimed at Medicare contractors, provider relations staff, and directory producers responsible for maintaining a public listing of participating physicians, suppliers, groups, and related clinic entries. The guidance addresses directory structure, inclusion rules, presentation standards, alternative delivery methods, web access, and required distribution/cost reporting.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps organizations produce a compliant beneficiary-facing directory and meet Medicare administrative requirements for publication, distribution, and reporting. Accurate directory setup affects beneficiary access to participating providers and the completeness of public provider information.
Article Sections
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MEDICARE PARTICIPATING PHYSICIANS/SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY (MEDPARD)
Introduces the directory requirement and the annual timing for producing and distributing it. Covers the overall purpose and scope of the directory.
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A. Contents
Describes the two-part directory structure and the types of provider and group information to include. Also addresses organization of listings, treatment of multiple locations, and handling of certain clinic entries.
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B. Organization - Geographic, Physician/Supplier/Group, Alphabetic
Explains how to organize the directory by geographic area and how to arrange listings within each part. Includes requirements related to specialty headings, page structure, and beneficiary readability.
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C. Paper, Print, Binding
Provides formatting and physical production requirements for the directory booklet. Covers paper, size, typography, cover presentation, and mailing-related presentation details.
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D. Interpretive Information
Describes required instructional material to help beneficiaries use the directory. Includes table-of-contents and navigation guidance for locating participating providers.
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E. Distribution and Charging
Lists the categories of recipients who should receive the directory and addresses when it must be provided without charge. Also covers broader distribution expectations within the service area.
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F. Alternative Method
Discusses non-paper delivery options for the directory, including electronic or diskette formats. Also mentions web-based availability and notification practices.
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G. Reporting Requirements
Outlines recordkeeping and reporting obligations tied to printing, distribution, and cost reporting. Includes both initial and year-end reporting expectations.
What You Will Learn
- How the MEDPARD directory is structured and maintained
- What categories of provider information belong in the directory
- How the directory should be organized for beneficiary use
- What production and formatting standards apply to the directory
- What distribution categories and reporting requirements apply
Who Should Read This
- Medicare contractors
- Provider relations staff
- Directory production staff
- Compliance and operations teams
- Health plan administrative staff
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