decisionhealth Newsletters, Answer Books - 2006 Issue 3 (March)
Program_Memos / 2002 / B-02-019
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Article Overview
This article is a CMS program memorandum for Medicare carriers and regional offices that explains procedures for referring eligible delinquent debts to the Debt Collection Center for cross-servicing and Treasury offset. It covers the timing of referral-related notices, updates to CMS tracking systems, financial reporting responsibilities, and the use of accompanying forms and attachments. It is relevant to Medicare administrative, finance, and collections staff who manage debt validation and referral workflows.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps operational and finance teams understand a CMS debt-referral process that affects collections handling, internal reporting, and coordination with CMS central office and the Debt Collection Center.
Article Sections
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Background
Introduces the program memorandum and the broader federal debt-collection context. Summarizes the purpose of the referral process and the scope of debts addressed.
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Debt Selection
Explains which debts are subject to the referral workflow and how the process is implemented over time. Describes general timing, notice, and reporting preparation steps.
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Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 Language – “Intent to Refer” Letter
Describes the required content category for the referral notice and the handling of debtor responses. Covers the general purpose of the letter and related communications.
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PSOR Updates
Addresses updates to CMS tracking records after referral-related notices are sent. Focuses on status tracking and coordination between locations.
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Debt Collection System (DCS)
Introduces the debt tracking system used for referral processing and authorized data entry. Covers access, certification, and general system-use responsibilities.
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Actions Subsequent To DCS Input
Summarizes post-input responsibilities after debts are transmitted for further collection activity. Includes ongoing record maintenance and coordination for adjustments or recalls.
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Financial Reporting
Explains how referred debts are handled for financial statement reporting and internal accounting purposes. Addresses continuing interest accrual and reporting coordination.
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Funding
Discusses budget and funding considerations associated with implementing the memorandum. Mentions possible support for operational workload and system-related needs.
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Attachment 1 – Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 (DCIA) Required Language
Provides the attachment framework for the required debtor notice language. Includes general sections for notice content, due process, repayment, and related borrower communications.
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Attachment 2 – Recall/Adjustment Form
Presents the form used to document debt recalls or adjustments after referral activity. Includes the form layout and explanatory instructions for completing it.
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Attachment 3 – Collection Reconciliation / Acknowledgement Form
Presents the form used to reconcile and acknowledge collections tied to referred debts. Includes form fields and instructions for different reporting locations and collection scenarios.
What You Will Learn
- The general purpose of CMS debt-referral guidance for Medicare carrier and regional office operations
- How the memorandum frames delinquent debt referral timing and notice workflow
- What types of tracking, reporting, and system coordination are involved after referral
- How the attached forms support recall, adjustment, and collection reconciliation processes
- What administrative and financial reporting considerations accompany debt transfer to CMS collection pathways
Who Should Read This
- Medicare carriers
- Regional offices
- CMS central office staff
- Financial management staff
- Accounts receivable and collections personnel
- Provider reimbursement and administrative staff
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