Program_Memos / 2003 / AB-03-008

Why This Topic Matters

Hospice providers, intermediaries, and carriers need to understand the policy clarification and its timing so certification practices and administrative guidance align with Medicare requirements.

Article Sections

1. Program Memorandum Background

   Introduces the CMS transmittal and notes that it reissues earlier program memoranda with limited changes. It also identifies the change request and general administrative context.

2. Subject: Clarification of Physician Certification Requirements for Medicare Hospice

   Explains the Medicare hospice certification topic and summarizes the statutory and regulatory references discussed in the memorandum. It describes the legislative clarification and how CMS frames the policy update.

3. Administrative Instructions and Dates

   Outlines the communication responsibilities for intermediaries and carriers and lists the timing information associated with the memorandum. It also includes the discard date and contact information.