Program_Memos / 2001 / AB-01-57

Why This Topic Matters

The memo helps readers understand how an adverse-action data bank was incorporated into Medicare contractor operations and why it was used as part of screening and oversight workflows. It is useful for compliance, enrollment, and program integrity staff who need historical context on federal contractor reporting and query practices.

Article Sections

1. HIPDB overview and purpose

   Introduces the data bank, its federal ownership and administration, and the general role it was intended to play in provider oversight.

2. Types of adverse actions captured

   Summarizes the broad categories of final adverse actions included in the system and the general scope of information tracked.

3. Access, registration, and contractor responsibilities

   Describes how Medicare contractors were to obtain access, complete registration, and manage credentials for system use.

4. System use and query practices

   Explains the general search approach, the level of identifying information needed, and the importance of reviewing results carefully.

5. Use by benefit integrity, enrollment, and medical review units

   Outlines the broad ways different contractor units were expected to incorporate the database into program integrity and enrollment workflows.

6. Effective date, implementation date, and contact information

   Provides the memo’s timing, retention guidance, and points of contact for follow-up questions.

7. Attachment

   Notes the presence of an attached reference item associated with the memo.