The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has released new enrollment requirements for healthcare providers and suppliers that bill Medicare. The purpose is to fight fraud and reduce abuse.

CMS’s rule is a reaction to studies commissioned by CMS, the Government Accountability Office and the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General indicating fraud through the use of “fictitious applicants being granted Medicare billing numbers.”

Published Friday in the Federal Register, the rule requires all providers and suppliers to complete an enrollment form and submit specific information. Also, all providers and suppliers must periodically update and certify the accuracy of the enrollment information to retain their billing privileges, according to CMS.

To view the Federal Register text link, go to http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20061800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2006/06-3722.htm.