Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Reference Guide
1.0 About This Reference Guide
This guide was written to help you understand the process used by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for approving proposed Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) amounts and to serve as a reference for those choosing to submit such amounts to CMS for approval. Submitters may include injured workers themselves (claimants), their attorneys, Workers’ Compensation (WC) Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (MSA) agents or consultants, or claimants’ other appointed representatives. This guide reflects information compiled from all WCMSA Regional Office (RO) Memorandums issued by CMS, from information provided on the CMS website, from information provided by the Workers Compensation Review Contractor (WCRC), and from the CMS WCMSA Operating Rules. The intent of this Reference Guide is to consolidate and supplant all historical memoranda in a single point of reference. Please discontinue the reference of prior documents. There are no statutory or regulatory provisions requiring that you submit a WCMSA amount proposal to CMS for review. If you choose to use CMS’ WCMSA review process, the Agency requests that you comply with CMS’ established policies and procedures.1.1 Changes in This Version of the Guide
Version 2.7 of this Guide includes the following changes: The WCRC contact phone number has been updated (Section 14.0, Appendix 1 and Appendix 5 (Closeout Letter).2.0 Introduction to Workers’ Compensation and Medicare
2.1 Medicare as Secondary Payer
“Medicare Secondary Payer” (MSP) is the term used when the Medicare program does not have primary payment responsibility on behalf of its beneficiaries—that is, when another entity has the responsibility for paying for medical care before Medicare. Until 1980, the Medicare program was the primary payer in all cases except those involving WC (including Black Lung benefits) or for care that is the responsibility of another government entity. With the addition of the MSP provisions in 1980 (and subsequent amendments), Medicare is secondary payer to group health plan insurance in specific circumstances, but is also secondary to liability insurance (including self-insurance), no-fault insurance, and WC. An insurer or WC plan cannot, by contract or otherwise, supersede federal law, for instance by alleging its coverage is “supplemental” to Medicare. WC is a primary payer to the Medicare program for Medicare beneficiaries’ work-related illnesses or injuries. Medicare beneficiaries are required to apply for all applicable WC benefits. If a Medicare beneficiary has WC coverage, providers, physicians, and other suppliers must bill WC first. In order to comply with 42 U.S.C. § 1395y(b)(2) and § 1862(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Social Security Act, Medicare may not pay for a beneficiary's medical expenses when payment “has been made or can reasonably be expected to be made under a workers’ compensation plan, an automobile or liability insurance policy or plan (including a self-insured plan), or under no-fault insurance.” If responsibility for the WC claim is in dispute and WC will not pay promptly, the provider, physician, or other supplier may bill Medicare as primary payer. If the item or service is reimbursable under Medicare rules, Medicare may pay conditionally, subject to later recovery if there is a subsequent settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. (See 42 C.F.R. § 411.21 for the definition of “promptly” with regard to WC.)2.2 Reporting a WC Case
All WC occurrences that involve a Medicare beneficiary should be reported to the Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center (BCRC). If you are a Responsible Reporting Entity (RRE) making an initial report of ongoing responsibility, use the Section 111 COB Secure Website for reporting. For the submission of WCMSA information, contact the BCRC by phone or mail. Customer Service Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Time, except holidays. The BCRC's toll free number is 1-855-798-2627 or TTY/TDD: 1-855-797-2627 for the hearing and speech impaired. Written reports of WC occurrences should be addressed to: Medicare—Medicare Secondary Payer MSP Claims Investigation Project- Box 138899
- Injured person’s name
- Injured person's Medicare Health Insurance Claim Number (HICN) or Social Security Number (SSN)
- Date of incident
- Nature of illness/injury
- Name and address of the WC insurance carrier
- Name and address of the injured person’s legal representatives
- Name of insured
- Policy/claim number
2.3 Past and Future Medical Services
Generally, the term “past medical services” refers to Medicare-covered and otherwise- reimbursable items and services that the beneficiary receives before he or she obtains a WC settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. The term “future medical services” refers to Medicare-covered and otherwise-reimbursable items and services that the beneficiary receives after he or she obtains a settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. In situations in which Medicare has paid for WC-claim-related care before the beneficiary has obtained a settlement, judgment, award, or other payment, those Medicare payments are referred to as “conditional payments.” They are considered conditional payments because Medicare pays under the condition that it is reimbursed when the beneficiary gets a WC settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Medicare is required by statute (42 U.S.C. § 1395y(b)) to seek reimbursement for conditional payments related to the settlement. Further, Medicare is prohibited from making payment where payment has been made (that is, where the beneficiary obtains a settlement, judgment, award, or other payment). Medicare remains the secondary payer until the settlement proceeds are appropriately exhausted. In many situations, the parties to a WC settlement choose to pursue a CMS-approved WCMSA amount in order to establish certainty with respect to the amount that must be appropriately exhausted before Medicare begins to pay for care related to the WC settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Note: If Medicare is pursuing recovery directly from the WC insurer, the beneficiary, attorney, or other representative will receive a copy of recovery correspondence sent to the WC insurer. For more information on insurer recovery, see the Non-Group Health Plan Recovery page: http://go.cms.gov/NGHPR.3.0 What Are Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set- Aside Arrangements?
A WCMSA allocates a portion of the WC settlement for all future work-injury-related medical expenses that are covered and otherwise reimbursable by Medicare (“Medicare covered”). When a proposed WCMSA amount is submitted to CMS for review and the claimant (who may or may not be a beneficiary) obtains CMS’ approval, the CMS-approved WCMSA amount must be appropriately exhausted before Medicare will begin to pay for care related to the beneficiary’s settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. The goal of establishing a WCMSA is to estimate, as accurately as possible, the total cost that will be incurred for all medical expenses otherwise reimbursable by Medicare for work-injury- related conditions during the course of the claimant’s life, and to set aside sufficient funds from the settlement, judgment, or award to cover that cost. WCMSAs may be funded by a lump sum or may be structured, with a fixed amount of funds paid each year for a fixed number of years, often using an annuity. Any claimant who receives a WC settlement, judgment, or award that includes an amount for future medical expenses must take Medicare’s interest with respect to future medicals into account. If Medicare’s interests are not considered, CMS has a priority right of recovery against any entity that received any portion of a third-party payment either directly or indirectly—a right to recover, or take back, that payment. CMS also has a subrogation right with respect to any such third-party payment. "Subrogation" literally means the substitution of one person or entity for another. If Medicare exercises its subrogation rights, Medicare is a claimant against the responsible party and the liability insurer to the extent that Medicare has made payments to or on behalf of the beneficiary for services related to claims against the responsible party (and the responsible party’s liability insurance). In this example, Medicare is substituting for the claimant in this situation. Medicare can be a party to any claim by a beneficiary or other entity against a responsible party and/or his/her liability insurance, and can participate in negotiations concerning the total liability insurance payment and the amount to be repaid to Medicare. Medicare may also refuse to pay for future medical expenses related to the WC injury until the entire settlement is exhausted. These arrangements are typically not created until the individual’s condition has stabilized so that it can be determined, based on past experience, what the future medical expenses may be. CMS prefers this, so that future medical and prescription drug costs can be planned with a reasonable degree of certainty. Once the CMS-approved set-aside amount is exhausted and accurately accounted for to CMS, Medicare will pay primary for future Medicare-covered expenses related to the WC injury that exceed the approved set-aside amount.4.0 Should I Consider Submitting a WCMSA Proposal?
4.1 Considerations and Guidelines
An individual or beneficiary may consider seeking CMS approval of a proposed WCMSA amount for a variety of reasons. The primary benefit is the certainty associated with CMS reviewing and approving the proposed amount with respect to the amount that must be appropriately exhausted. It is important to note, however, that CMS approval of a proposed WCMSA amount is not required.4.1.1 Commutation and Compromise
WC cases may involve past medical expenses, future medical expenses, or both. When a settlement includes compensation for medical expenses incurred prior to the settlement date, it is referred to as a “WC compromise case.” When a settlement includes compensation for future medical expenses, it is referred to as a “WC commutation case.” A settlement also has a commutation aspect if it does not provide for future medical expenses when the facts of the case indicate the need for continued medical care related to the WC illness or injury. A WC settlement can have both compromise and commutation aspects. Please refer to the July 2001 WC RO Memorandum for more information.4.1.2 Outstanding WC Claims
If a Medicare beneficiary has outstanding WC-related claims that were not paid by either Medicare or the WC carrier prior to the settlement, the beneficiary is required to pay for related unpaid medicals bills out of his or her WC settlement. Medicare cannot pay because it is secondary to the WC settlement.4.1.3 Other Health Coverage
A WCMSA is still recommended when you have coverage through other private health insurance, the Veterans Administration, or Medicare Advantage (Part C). Other coverage could be cancelled or you could elect not to use such a plan. A WCMSA is primary to Medicare Advantage and must be exhausted before using Part C benefits on your WC illness or injury.4.1.4 Hearing on the Merits of a Case
Because the CMS prices based upon what is claimed, released, or released in effect, the CMS must have documentation as to why disputed cases settle future medical costs for less than the recommended pricing. As a result, when a state WC judge or other binding party approves a WC settlement after a hearing on the merits, Medicare generally will accept the terms of the settlement, unless the settlement does not adequately address Medicare’s interests. This shall include all denied liability cases, whether in part or in full. If Medicare’s interests were not reasonably considered, Medicare will refuse to pay for services related to the WC injury (and otherwise reimbursable by Medicare) until such expenses have exhausted the entire dollar amount of the entire WC settlement. Medicare may also assert a recovery claim, if appropriate. If a court or other adjudicator of the merits (e.g., a state WC board or commission) specifically designates funds to a portion of a settlement that is not related to medical services (e.g., lost wages), then Medicare will accept that designation.4.2 Indications That Medicare’s Interests are Protected
Submitting a WCMSA proposed amount for review is never required. But WC claimants must always protect Medicare’s interests. A WCMSA is not necessary under the following conditions because when all three are true, they indicate that Medicare’s interests are already protected:- The facts of the case demonstrate that the injured individual is only being compensated for past medical expenses (i.e., for services furnished prior to the settlement);
- There is no evidence that the individual is attempting to maximize the other aspects of the settlement (e.g., the lost wages and disability portions of the settlement) to Medicare’s detriment; and
- The individual's treating physicians conclude (in writing) that to a reasonable degree of medical certainty the individual will no longer require any Medicare- covered treatments related to the WC
Notes:
- If Medicare made any conditional payments for WC injury-related services furnished prior to settlement, then Medicare will recover those payments. In addition, Medicare will not pay for any WC injury-related services furnished prior to the date of the settlement for which it has not already
- CMS will not issue “verification letters” stating that a WCMSA is not
5.0 WCMSA Funding Structures
There are two kinds of WCMSAs. An individual or a beneficiary may obtain a settlement that provides for a lump-sum WCMSA or a structured WCMSA.5.1 Lump-Sum WCMSAs
A WCMSA can be established as a lump-sum arrangement where the beneficiary accepts a single payment intended to pay for all future medical expenses and disability benefits related to the work injury or disease. When a WCMSA is designated as a lump-sum commutation settlement, Medicare will not make any payments for the claimant’s medical expenses (for work- related injuries or diseases) until all the funds within the WCMSA (including any interest earned on the funds in the account) have been completely exhausted. These same basic principles also apply to structured settlements. Generally, WCMSAs that are lump sums are easier to monitor than structured arrangements.5.2 Structured WCMSAs
A WCMSA can also be established as a structured arrangement, where payments are made to the account on a defined schedule to cover expenses projected for future years. In a structured WCMSA, an initial deposit is required to cover the first surgical procedure or replacement and two years of annual payments. The initial deposit (“seed money”) is followed by subsequent annual deposits (or a shorter time period if CMS agrees to such), based on the anniversary of the first deposit. If in any given coverage year the deposited funds are not exhausted (i.e., used up, spent), they are carried forward to the next period and added to the next annual deposit. The whole fund, including carry-forwards, must be exhausted before Medicare will pay primary for any WC injury-related medical expenses. If the fund is exhausted appropriately in a given annual period, Medicare will pay primary for further WC injury-related medical expenses during that period. In the next annual period, the replenished WCMSA funds again must be used, until the WCMSA amount is appropriately exhausted.6.0 Who Can Help with the WCMSA Process?
Setting up a WCMSA arrangement, submitting the proposal to CMS for approval, and selecting the best way to administer the arrangement can be complicated. If you are an injured worker who will need future medical treatment, an attorney may be able to explain this process and provide legal help. An attorney can also help you consider whether you should have a separate administrator for your WCMSA. You may also find it useful to seek advice from financial and tax professionals in the planning phases and once the WCMSA is established. Once a WCMSA is established and funded, it must be administered. This can be done by the claimant, by the claimant’s representative payee, appointed guardian, or conservator, or by a professional administrator. The administrator must establish the WCMSA account, pay Medicare-covered services from the WCMSA account, and provide CMS with a reporting of the expenditures from the WCMSA.7.0 How is CMS Approval of a WCMSA Amount Obtained?
Generally there are four steps involved in creating a CMS-approved WCMSA. These steps are explained in more detail in the sections that follow:- Analysis of the claim and medical information in order to determine the amount of money required for the fund
- Negotiation of a tentative settlement and preparation of draft settlement documents to settle the WC case, incorporating terms for creation and administration of the WCMSA (CMS is not a party to the settlement)
- Obtaining approval from CMS for the amount of the proposed WCMSA
- Finalizing the settlement and funding the WCMSA
8.0 Should CMS Review a WCMSA?
If a proposed WCMSA total settlement amount meets the workload review thresholds outlined below, the proposal can be submitted to CMS for approval. If the parties to a WC settlement stipulate a WCMSA amount but do not receive CMS approval, then CMS is not bound by the set-aside amount stipulated by the parties, and it may refuse to pay for future medical expenses related to the WC work-related injury, even if they would ordinarily have been covered by Medicare. However, if CMS approves the WCMSA amount and the account is later appropriately exhausted, Medicare will pay Medicare-covered, WC work-injury-related medical bills for services otherwise covered and reimbursable by Medicare regardless of the amount of care the beneficiary continues to require. There are no statutory or regulatory provisions requiring that you submit a WCMSA amount proposal to CMS for review. If you choose to use CMS’ WCMSA review process, the Agency requires that you comply with CMS’ established policies and procedures in order to obtain approval. CMS reviews proposed WCMSA amounts in order to determine if the proposed WCMSA amount is sufficient to cover future claim-related medical expenses related to the WC settlement, judgment, or award. Note: A WCMSA amount should not be submitted to CMS when the resolution of the WC claim results in the medical portion of the claim being left open—that is, the resolution does not include medical expenses and the WC plan or carrier maintains ongoing responsibility for medicals (ORM), i.e., the WC plan or carrier will continue to pay for medical expenses related to the WC injury after settlement.8.1 Review Thresholds
CMS will review a proposed WCMSA amount when the following workload review thresholds are met:- The claimant is a Medicare beneficiary and the total settlement amount is greater than $25,000.00; or
- The claimant has a reasonable expectation of Medicare enrollment within 30 months of the settlement date and the anticipated total settlement amount for future medical expenses and disability or lost wages over the life or duration of the settlement agreement is expected to be greater than $250,000.00.
- The claimant has applied for Social Security Disability Benefits
- The claimant has been denied Social Security Disability Benefits but anticipates appealing that decision
- The claimant is in the process of appealing and/or re-filing for Social Security Disability benefits
- The claimant is 62 years and 6 months old
- The claimant has an End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) condition but does not yet qualify for Medicare based upon ESRD
9.0 WCMSA Submission Process Overview
When a WCMSA proposal is submitted on paper or CD, the Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center (BCRC) transfers it to CMS’ computerized system and checks it for completeness. Then it is ready to be reviewed by the Workers’ Compensation Review Contractor (WCRC). Proposals submitted online via the WCMSA Portal (WCMSAP) go directly to the WCRC for review. Either the BCRC or the WCRC may request more information from the submitter as necessary. The WCRC applies CMS’ criteria in reviewing proposals, and forwards the proposals along with a recommendation on the appropriate funding amount to the assigned CMS Regional Office (RO) for a final determination. For more information on the submission process and documentation requirements, please see Section 11.0, How do I submit a WCMSA?. Figure 9-1 illustrates the submission process and all of the entities involved. A single-direction arrow indicates one-way communication. A double-direction arrow indicates two-way communication. More detailed information about this process immediately follows this diagram.Figure 9-1: WCMSA Submission Process Overview
9.1 WCMSAP Submissions
When a WCMSA case is submitted online via the WCMSAP, case information is electronically transmitted to the CMS system used to report and track WCMSA cases. The submitter will receive an alert which can only be viewed on the WCMSAP. This alert acknowledges that the case was received.9.2 Paper or CD Submissions
When the BCRC receives a WCMSA proposal via hard copy (paper documents, including faxes) or via CD, it manually prepares, sorts, and scans all eligible WCMSA proposals, including all documentation received, into the CMS system used to report and track WCMSA cases.9.3 Receipt Review
The review process is as follows:- New Case: If the submitted WCMSA proposal is for a new case and all required documentation has been submitted, it is ready for WCRC review. However, if any required documents are missing, the submitter is asked for the missing information, in a phase called Development.
- Existing Case: If the submitted WCMSA documentation is for an existing case, it is matched with and appended to the existing case. At this point, and if the submitted documentation is complete, the case is ready for WCRC
- Deceased Beneficiary: If the WCMSA submission is for a beneficiary who is possibly deceased, the submitter is notified that, according to CMS’ records, the beneficiary is deceased, and the submitter is requested to submit evidence to the contrary. If supplemental information is not supplied, the case is systematically
9.4 WCRC Review
9.4.1 WCRC Review Process
The WCRC receives submissions from the BCRC and from the portal, and performs an independent review of the adequacy of both the medical and prescription drug costs proposed. The WCRC first reviews the case in detail for completeness and accuracy. If errors are found in a submitted case, the submitter is notified.- If the case was submitted via the WCMSAP, the submitter will be notified via an e- mail alert to the address provided during the WCMSAP account
- If the case was submitted via paper or CD, the submitter will receive a letter via the postal
9.4.1.1 Most Frequent Reasons for Development Requests
The five most frequent reasons for development requests by the WCRC:- Insufficient or out-of-date medical records;
- Insufficient payment histories, usually because the records do not provide a breakdown for medical, indemnity or expenses categories;
- Failure to address draft or final settlement agreements and court rulings in the cover letter or elsewhere in the submission;
- Documents that are referenced in the file are not provided – this usually occurs with court rulings or settlement documents;
- References to state statutes or regulations without providing sufficient documentation (i.e., to which payments the statutes/regulations apply or a copy of the statute or regulation, or notice of which statutes or regulations apply to which )
9.4.2 WCRC Team Background and Resources Used
All of the WCRC reviewers are licensed healthcare professionals, including registered nurses, physicians, nurse practitioners, and professional counselors. These reviewers also maintain various credentials and certifications, such as Certified Case Managers, Life Care Planners, Certified Coders, Rehabilitation Counselors, and Legal Nurse Consultants. Several are also licensed in the practice of law. The WCRC reviewing staff has knowledge of:- International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9, ICD-10, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) coding practices
- Medicare coverage guidelines
- Anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology
- Clinical practice guidelines
- Utilization review standards and practices
- State-specific workers’ compensation guidelines and pricing structure
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and related healthcare confidentiality regulations
9.4.3 WCRC Review Considerations
After the WCRC case reviewer validates that the injury has been accepted as a compensable injury, the next step is to project related future medical care. These considerations are key to review accuracy: Are there previous injuries that affect the resolution of the accepted injury? Are there underlying medical conditions that will affect the type of future care or the length of care necessary to bring about the best possible outcome? Are there underlying conditions requiring concurrent medications or treatment, but which are not related specifically to this work injury? Are non-treating provider reviews and examinations taking precedence over the treating providers’ treatment plan? Are the medical pricing rules used appropriate for the particular region? The WCRC team reviews all of the submitted records and attempts to determine the future care required for the individual claimant, taking into consideration the claimant’s specific condition, other comorbidities, and the claimant’s past use of healthcare services. Reviewers use evidence- based rationale for their determinations, taking into account both published guidelines and current peer-reviewed medical literature. Medical pricing may vary based on injury, age, location, and other factors. Each submission is reviewed independently of other submissions for claimants with the same injury and age. This accounts for any differences in WCMSA amount determination. For example, a reasonably healthy and active 45-year-old claimant who recently had total knee replacement surgery is likely to require a revision of the surgery (second knee replacement) during his 30-year life expectancy, as the replacement joint wears out. However, another 45- year-old claimant with a recent total knee replacement but who is sedentary and in poor health due to diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease may not require or be a satisfactory risk for such a revision in the future. If a claimant might need a revision or replacement surgery in the last 1–3 years of life expectancy, the decision to include this revision in the WCMSA depends on the type of revision and on the claimant’s overall condition. For example, a claimant in the last 1–3 years of life expectancy is unlikely to have a revision of a total hip replacement surgery, but a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) for pain management would likely be revised if needed. The WCRC considers both the claimant’s past history of treatment and the recent trending of treatment in determining plans for future treatment frequency. For example, if a claimant was seeing the physician every year initially, but records indicate more frequent visits recently, that will be considered in the determination. There is currently no plan to establish a set of standards for specific conditions. The WCRC relies on evidence-based guidelines for prescription medication and medical treatment allocations; however, these are guidelines, not rules. The final determination is also based on the claimant’s past use and future recommended treatment as supported by the medical records and by current peer-reviewed medical literature. See Appendix 4 for a list of resources the WCRC uses. The WCRC strives to comply with the laws of the state determined to be the appropriate state of venue. The reviewers research the applicable state regulations and fee schedules. In previous years, the WCRC has priced WCMSAs using the highest fee schedule zone possible within any state that uses fee schedules. Currently the WCRC prices WCMSAs according to the correct region for the state of venue. Hospital fee schedules are currently determined using the Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment for a Major Medical Center within the state, and this fee is applied to all locations within the state.9.4.4 Medical Review
The WCRC follows ten steps in its medical review process. For a list of resources used in the process, see Appendix 4. The diagram below shows the steps in order, with decision points. The steps are numbered in the diagram and explained in the text following the diagram.Figure 9-2: WCRC Medical Review Steps
Step 1: Validate demographics and contact information.- Verify that claimant name, SSN, HICN, address, date of birth, and gender are consistent with the submitter
- Check that contact information is present for claimant’s attorney, carrier, employer or carrier attorney submitter, WCMSA administrator, and Social Security Administration (SSA) representative payee (if there is one).
- If a professional administrator is proposed, verify that the full contact information is available.
- Check that a consent-to-release note is valid and signed by the claimant, Power of Attorney (POA) holder, or guardian. If there is a POA or guardian, submitted documents must support that
Step 2: Verify that the total settlement amount (TSA) is clear and that the review threshold is met.
If the TSA is not clear in the submitter letter, the case cannot be reviewed until it is clarified through development. Cases that are clearly under threshold will be closed as ineligible. Cases not clearly meeting the threshold requirements are developed so that the WCRC can determine whether the case is eligible for review.Step 3: Verify that dates of injury and conditions being settled are clear.
Multiple dates of injury that are settling can be included in one WCMSA. Document each date of injury (DOI) with the accepted and alleged body parts for each date of injury. The submitter also has the option to submit separate WCMSA proposals for different DOIs for the same claimant. It is helpful if the submitter includes the ICD-9 or ICD-10 codes for each condition for each DOI. Do not use both ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes on one submission; use only ICD-10 codes for DOIs on or after 10/1/2015. (ICD-9 codes will continue to be allowed for submissions with a DOI of 9/30/2015 or earlier.) It is also helpful to include medical records, a payment history, and detailed prescription history for each DOI being settled. The reviewer will also determine whether parties are settling on all body parts or portions of the claim, or if some portions of the claim will remain open. If the carrier will continue to pay for all WC claim injury-related medical care for the claimant, then the case is ineligible for review. If the proposal involves settling all medical claims for all body parts, the case is eligible for review. Also, if the agreement states that the carrier will continue to pay for some medical services but not others for the same body part, the WCRC considers this as not settling for all treatments for that body part. For example, the WCRC cannot work a case where a submitter wants to settle medical claims for a body part, but leave open prescription drugs for the same body part. For multiple WC settlements per claimant, the cover letter should be clear on how the submitter expects the cases to be handled. If the cover letter is not clear, the WCRC will discuss with the submitter whether to process the settlements as one WCMSA proposed amount, or as multiple separate amounts. The cases will be closed until the submitter clarifies in writing which is the preferred option, at which point the cases will be reopened.Step 4: Verify the proposed set-aside amounts.
The reviewer will first review a settlement document, signed by all parties and state-approved, for the proposed total settlement amount. If such an amount is not accompanied somewhere in the file by a proposed life expectancy, the reviewer will ignore the amount in the settlement document. If the submitter proposes a different amount, the reviewer will use the settlement documents’ amount. If there is no settlement document with a proposed total amount, the reviewer will review the cover letter for proposed WCMSA amounts and the specific breakdown for proposed medical and prescription amounts. The amounts should add up to the total and be identical in both the submitter letter and the proposed future treatment tables provided with the submission. If the submitter letter is not clear as to the proposed set-aside amount or there are any discrepancies, the WCRC will develop the case, which delays review. If there is no specification of how much of the total settlement amount is for medical expenses vs. prescription drug expenses, the reviewer will assume it is all for medical items and services.Step 5: Verify jurisdiction and calculation method.
The order of jurisdictional precedence will follow the diagram in Figure 9-3.Figure 9-3: Verifying Jurisdiction and Calculation Method
- If a state institutes or changes a fee schedule, CMS’ contractor will apply the new fee schedule immediately upon learning of its official publication, for any case still in process on that date;
- CMS’ contractor will default to pricing based on state fee schedule, where applicable, unless the submitter otherwise specifies that the proposal was developed based on actual charges;
- If submitted documentation indicates that a proposed WCMSA amount is based upon a Longshore Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act settlement, CMS’ contractor will price based on the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs fee schedule for the ZIP code of claimant’s residence, unless the submitter specifies actual
Step 6: Verify payout method: lump sum versus annuity.
If the submission includes settlement documents, the reviewer uses the payout method, if any, listed in such documents. If there are no settlement documents, the reviewer will use the payout method as requested in writing by the claimant or claimant’s attorney. If there is no such written request, the reviewer will use the method stated in the submitter cover letter. The default method, should all else fail, is the lump sum payout. If the cover letter is unclear or if information conflicts with other information in the submission, the case will require development and will take longer to process. When annuity is selected, the submitter provides a proposed “seed” or initial deposit amount. This amount should include the cost of the first procedure and first replacement, if any. The seed includes the first two years of the annual amount. See Section 05 – Cover Letter in this Guide for instructions on how to calculate the seed amount, with an example. The seed includes the cost of the first surgery, including all costs such as prescription drugs, physician fees, anesthesia fees, and facility fees. If the surgery is preceded by an associated trial, i.e., trial SCS or trial intrathecal (IT) pump, the cost of the trial is also included since it is considered part of the same procedure. If there are no surgeries, the first procedure (if any, such as injections) is included. Series of spinal injections are not included but series of knee viscosupplementation is included if three are anticipated to be accomplished as a series of three weekly injections. The first replacement of Durable Medical Equipment (DME), prosthesis, or orthotics is included in the seed funds if the cost of such items exceeds $500. The seed includes the cost of surgeries, procedures, drugs, or replacement items as noted above. It does not include the cost of diagnostic studies, complications, and hospitalizations for non- surgical treatment.Step 7: Calculate life expectancy using standard age or median rated age.
Rated ages (RAs) are optional. For all cases with BCRC receipt dates of 10/01/08 or later (or reopened cases where the scan date of the reopening document is 10/01/08 or later), the submitter must supply a statement that all rated ages obtained on the claimant have been included. If this is missing, the WCRC will use actual age in processing the submission. If an RA is provided, acceptable proof of the RA is necessary. Rated ages must name the claimant, must be by an insurance company, must be on insurance company or settlement broker letterhead, must be independent, and must give a specific rated age or life expectancy. If there is not at least one RA that meets these criteria, the WCRC will use actual age in processing the submission. Reviewers may drop RAs that are not valid. If no RAs are provided, if there are no valid rated ages, or if the appropriate RA statement is not provided, actual age is used in calculating the life expectancy. The reviewer evaluates the issue date of the RA against the proposed settlement date (PSD). This date is the later of the following: BCRC receipt date plus 120 days, or the pricing date plus three months. One year is added to the RA if one year has passed from the issue date to the PSD. If two years have passed from the issue date of the RA, two years are added to the rated age. If three years have passed from the issue date of the RA, the rated age is not used in determining the median rated age. If there are multiple RAs from the same source, only the most recently issued RA from that issuer is used. When there is more than one valid RA, reviewers will use the median. When calculating the median RA, the reviewer drops decimals and uses the resulting whole number. For example, if the calculated RA is 49.5, the decimal is dropped and the age of 49 is used as the median RA. If you include a valid RA in a proposal, the reviewer will use that instead of actual age unless you request otherwise in writing. To determine life expectancy, the reviewer uses the current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) life expectancy table (see Section 15 – Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy for details). Per CMS memo of May 20, 2008, Table 1 for total population is used.Step 8: Verify that treatment records, payment records, and pharmacy records are up-to- date, complete, and valid.
Submitters should include treatment records for the last two years of treatment of the work injury. Statements from the claimant, carrier, or claimant’s attorney are not a substitute for treatment records. Provide all related treatment records, even if the claimant has relocated or begun treatment for the work injury with providers other than the workers’ compensation providers, if the treatment is within the last 2 years. If there are multiple work injuries and the submitter notes that some conditions are resolved or not under active treatment, the submitter should provide the last two years of treatment records for those conditions, even if that treatment did not occur in the last two calendar years. For example, if the claimant’s work injuries include a shoulder and cervical spine injury in 2006, but current records of 2011 and 2012 only address the cervical spine, please provide the last two years of treatment records related to the shoulder. If the shoulder was only treated in 2006 and 2007, provide those records. However, if the 2011 and 2012 records sufficiently address the shoulder, the 2006 and 2007 records are not needed. It is helpful to provide the first report of injury and surgical reports related to the work injuries, even if they are not dated in the past two years. Independent Medical Examination (IME) reports, Qualified Medical Examination (QME) reports, and Agreed Medical Examination (AME) reports are not a substitute for medical records. If the submitter provides an IME report that notes the claimant has not been treated for a work injury since 2008, the reviewer also needs the 2007 and 2008 treatment records. The WCRC reviewers need carrier payment records (medical and pharmaceutical), printed within six months of the date of submission or date of reopening. This includes a two-year history for all categories: medical, indemnity, and expenses. If the carrier has denied any conditions, submit the entire pay history, not just a two-year history. If the records for denied cases reflect a payment, medical and treatment records may be required to complete the review process. The information must be sufficient to determine the doses and frequencies of each medication. If the claimant is filling medications for the work injury but the carrier is not currently paying for the medications, the reviewer needs sufficient medical records, prescription records, or a signed treating provider letter stating the medications with doses and frequencies. If physician- dispensed medications do not appear on the carrier prescription history, please submit billing records or other documentation to demonstrate the refill history.Step 9: Review records and submitter’s proposed plan. Price the appropriate future medical and pharmacy services.
The WCRC performs an independent review of the adequacy of the medical and prescription drug costs included in the submitted WCMSA proposal, and prepares a recommendation to CMS about the proposal and whether it protects Medicare’s interests. The reviewer considers all evidence provided in the submission. This includes any treatment records, physician-dispensed medication records, payment records, court orders, treatment guidelines, or applicable statutes that were attached to the submission. Please submit any such evidence mentioned in the proposal. The reviewer must include treatments that are Medicare covered, following local and national coverage guidelines. (National coverage guidelines may be found at this link https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Manuals/Internet-Only-Manuals- IOMs-Items/CMS014961.html?DLPage=1&DLSort=0&DLSortDir=ascending on the CMS site.) Treatments that are not covered by Medicare are not included in the calculated WCMSA amount. If the item is recommended in the medical record and is covered by Medicare, it will be included in the WCMSA, regardless of whether it follows medical association guidelines. The WCRC makes every effort not to include services that have not been recommended in the medical records unless the service is always part of the treatment. The WCRC reviews proposals on a case-by-case basis. They consider the treatment and usage patterns, the recommendation of the treating providers, life expectancy, functional status, responses to treatment, and effectiveness of therapies as established in the records. The WCRC references evidence-based guidelines as resources in determining future treatment. Examples include Milliman and the Official Disability Guidelines; see Appendix 4 for further resources and links. For medical expenses, the treating physician opinion carries the greatest weight unless there is a court order to the contrary. For prescription medications, the reviewers include medications that are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved or supported for inclusion in the approved compendia. Reviewers use the evidence in the records to determine if the proposal accounts for the reasonably probable future prescription drug needs. This includes the prescription drug history, the treatment notes, provider medication lists, and physician dispensing records. The current Red Book Drug Reference is used to price medications according to Average Wholesale Price (AWP). See section 9.4.6 in this Guide for further details on Pharmacy reviews and special topics. Note: The WCRC will always price the case at 100% of the future costs related to the work injury. CMS does not recognize any apportionment of future medical items and services or prescription drug costs related to the work injury.Step 10: Provide an explanation in the decision rationale for counter higher or counter lower determinations.
If the recommended WCMSA amount (which is a combined total of medical and prescription costs) is within 5% of the submitter’s total proposed WCMSA amount, the WCRC recommendation is approval of the submitter’s proposed amount. In structured cases, the seed amount is separately calculated. If the recommended initial deposit is within 5% of the submitter’s initial deposit, the WCRC recommendation is approval of the submitter’s proposed seed amount. The reviewer provides a detailed decision rationale when there is a counter higher or lower determination.9.4.5 Medical Review Guidelines
Diagnostics
In general, the reviewers include x-rays every 3 to 5 years, but include yearly x-rays if there was or will be a major joint replacement. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are included every 5 to 7 years. These are guidelines only. Since the determination is made on a case-by-case basis, other factors are considered, such as claimant life expectancy, past surgeries, functional status, age of injury, treatment pattern, and provider recommendations. In the case of Computerized Tomography (CT) scans and MRIs, if the diagnostic study ordered is specific as to “with or without contrast,” and submitters provide documentation as to which, the WCRC will price them accordingly. To protect Medicare’s interest, if there is no indication as to the testing ordered, the WCRC will allocate for “without followed by with” contrast because the study may be changed due to findings on the “without” study.Intrathecal Pumps
The WCRC follows the most recent guidance from CMS on intrathecal (IT) pump pricing and frequencies. Permanent placements IT pump devices are included every 7 years: the claimant’s life expectancy is divided by 7, decimals are dropped, and the whole number is used for determining replacement over the life expectancy.Intrathecal Pump Surgery/Procedure Pricing
Surgery pricing includes physician fees, facility fees, and anesthesia fees, if applicable. Physician fees: CPT codes are identified and priced per the fee schedule (or usual and customary charges if claimant is in an actual-charges state). Facility fee: DRG codes for inpatient procedures are priced for a major medical center in that state, unless the fee schedule has pricing for that DRG (such as Illinois). If the procedure is an outpatient procedure, pricing is per the Ambulatory Payment Classification calculator for a facility in that state, unless the fee schedule has a maximum reimbursement amount for that procedure. Anesthesia fee: anesthesia fee is calculated per fee schedule formula using a reasonable time for the specified procedure for the time-value unit and base value as established by the fee schedule, or Medicare and conversion factors per fee schedule. Preadmission Testing will be included where appropriate. Trials: If the surgery is preceded by an associated trial, such as for a spinal cord stimulator, the trial is assumed to be successful and included with the cost of surgery. This does not apply if there is evidence that the trial was performed and was unsuccessful. If submitters provide a detailed breakdown of their proposed surgery prices, the reviewer will consider the proposed amounts.Spinal Cord Stimulators
The WCRC follows the most recent guidance from CMS on SCS pricing and frequencies. Permanent placements of SCS devices are included every 7 years for non-rechargeable and every 9 years for rechargeable: the claimant’s life expectancy is divided by the frequency of replacement by type, decimals are dropped, and the whole number is used for determining replacement over the life expectancy. Routine revisions will not include the lead implantation.Pricing for Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Surgery
Surgery pricing may include physician, facility, and anesthesia fees. Physician fees: CPT codes are identified and priced based on the appropriate state fee schedule (or usual and customary charges from a state).- 63650, number of units equal to the number of leads to be implanted
- 63655, if laminectomy for implantation of electrode is planned
Table 9-1: Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery CPT Codes
| Code | Description |
| CPT 95971 | Electronic analysis of implanted neurostimulator pulse generator system (e.g., rate, pulse amplitude, pulse duration, configuration of wave form, battery status, electrode selectability, output modulation, cycling, impedance and patient compliance measurements); simple spinal cord, or peripheral (i.e., peripheral nerve, sacral nerve, neuromuscular) neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter, with intraoperative or subsequent programming |
| CPT 95972 | Electronic analysis of implanted neurostimulator pulse generator system (e.g., rate, pulse amplitude, pulse duration, configuration of wave form, battery status, electrode selectability, output modulation, cycling, impedance and patient compliance measurements); complex spinal cord, or peripheral (i.e., peripheral nerve, sacral nerve, neuromuscular) (except cranial nerve) neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter, with intraoperative or subsequent programming, up to 1 hour |
| Code | Description |
| CPT 95973 | Electronic analysis of implanted neurostimulator pulse generator system (e.g., rate, pulse amplitude, pulse duration, configuration of wave form, battery status, electrode selectability, output modulation, cycling, impedance and patient compliance measurements); complex spinal cord, or peripheral (i.e., peripheral nerve, sacral nerve, neuromuscular) (except cranial nerve) neurostimulator pulse generator/transmitter, with intraoperative or subsequent programming, each additional 30 minutes after first hour (list separately in addition to code for primary procedure) |
- The procedure can be inpatient or outpatient, depending on previous surgeries or physician recommendation.
- LCD L34705 – SCS (Dorsal Column Stimulation) – “Generally, electronic analysis services (CPT codes 95970, 95971, 95972, and 95973) aren’t considered medically necessary when provided more often than once every 30 days. More frequent analysis may be necessary in the first month after ”
- LCD L35648 – SCS for Chronic Pain – Under Utilization Guidelines: “Generally, electronic analysis services (CPT codes 95970, 95971, 95972 and 95973) aren’t considered medically necessary when provided more often than once every 30 days. More frequent analysis may be necessary in the first month after implantation.”
Labs
The WCRC uses a line item for each lab test included. This allows the submitter to see how they arrived at the lab pricing.Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
CMS proposes coverage for TENS for chronic low back pain (CLBP) only when both of the following conditions are met. For the purposes of this decision, CLBP is defined as:- An episode of low back pain that has persisted for three months or longer; and
- Is not the result of certain well-defined diseases that may contribute to low back pain but which are not primarily low-back
State-Specific Statutes
The CMS will recognize or honor any state-legislated, non-compensable medical services and will separately evaluate any special situations regarding WC cases. CMS will recognize WC state-specific statutes addressing the limits of future treatment regarding the length or nature of future treatment, provided that the submitter has demonstrated that Medicare’s interests have been adequately protected. A submitter requesting that CMS review the applicability of a state WC statute must include a copy of the statute with the submission, and indicate to which section topic in the submission the statute applies. Submitters requesting alteration to pricing based upon state-legislated time limits must be able to show by finding from a court of competent jurisdiction, or appropriate state entity as assigned by law, that the specific WCMSA proposal does not meet the state’s list of exemptions to the legislative mandate. For those states where treatment is varied by some type of state-authorized utilization review board, the submitter shall include the alternative treatment plan showing what treatment has replaced the treatment in question from the beneficiary’s treating physician for those items deemed unnecessary by the utilization review board. Failure to include these items initially will result in pricing at the full life expectancy of the beneficiary or the original value of treatment without regard to the state utilization review board recommendation. Note: Failure to include the required documentation at the time of original submission will not constitute a reason for the request of a re-review.CMS Medical Record Guidelines
CMS gives specific guidance regarding acceptable formats and requirements for medical record submissions in the CMS manual system; specifically, MLN Matters Article 6698: https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network- MLN/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM6698.pdf See also Section 10.4 of this guide.Treatment Recommended Outside a Provider’s Area of Expertise
If the provider is a treating provider and there is no recommendation to the contrary, the WCRC will consider the recommendation in assessing the WCMSA, in relation to other treatment and treatment recommendations. This is considered because a licensed physician is not limited to a given specialty within the scope of practice. In the case of chiropractors, the recommendations are considered if related to chiropractic care only and not related to general medical treatment.9.4.6 Pharmacy
- Prescription Drug Review
- Validate that prescription drugs ordered and taken in the past two years were directly for treatment of the
- Determine if the drug products would be covered under the Part D benefit. This includes assessment of medically accepted indications (drug usage), drug dosage, and drug
- Determine if the claimant is taking brand or generic drug
- Price all drug products using AWP, with generic drugs being priced at the lowest non- repackaged generic AWP.
- First, the prescription claim records directly from the WC insurer. This gives a record of exactly what drugs have been used for the work injury. This might come on such a form as the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) Workers’ Compensation/Property and Casualty Claims Form. Many state WC programs use these forms to document drug
- Pharmacy Benefit Manager prescription claim records or third party administrator (TPA) pharmacy records provide a good sense of the totality of drug usage, especially if the claimant goes to multiple
- Individual pharmacy claim records are beneficial, but the WCRC is aware that claimants could go to multiple pharmacies. If at any time in the process the WCRC cannot compile an accurate picture of the claimant’s drug needs, they will develop for further
- A brand-name drug is in the proposal and there is an indication that the claimant is actually taking the brand-name
- A generic is in the proposal, but no generic
- A generic is in the proposal, but all the evidence indicates that the claimant is taking the brand-name
- The claimant or claimant’s attorney insists on a brand-name drug in
- No drugs are indicated in the submitted proposal, but the condition requires certain drugs, or the medical records indicate certain drugs. In this case, the WCRC will default to pricing for brand-name
9.4.6.2 Pharmacy Guidelines and Conditions
Recognized Compendia
Currently, CMS requests that the WCRC use Micromedex’s DrugDex database and the American Hospital Formulary Service Drug Information database to validate medically accepted indications. Indications could be in one or both of these databases.Medically Accepted Indications and Off-Label Use
For a drug to be covered under the Part D Benefit, and thus included in a WCMSA, it must be used for a medically accepted indication. A medically accepted indication is any use for a covered outpatient drug which is approved by the FDA, or a use which is supported by one or more citations included or approved for inclusion in the recognized compendia. Off-label use is when a drug is prescribed in a manner that is different from the FDA-approved product labeling. According to Medicare IOM 100-02 Chapter 15 section 50.4.2 - Unlabeled Use of Drug (Rev. 1, 10-01-03) B3-2049.3, “An unlabeled use of a drug is a use that is not included as an indication on the drug’s label as approved by the FDA. FDA approved drugs used for indications other than what is indicated on the official label may be covered under Medicare if the carrier determines the use to be medically accepted, taking into consideration the major drug compendia, authoritative medical literature and/or accepted standards of medical practice. In the case of drugs used in an anti-cancer chemotherapeutic regimen, unlabeled uses are covered for a medically accepted indication as defined in §50.5.” There are many off-label indications that are listed in recognized compendia and peer-reviewed sources; thus, they would be covered under the Part D Benefit, and should also be included in a WCMSA. For example, trazodone is approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder, but is commonly given off-label to treat insomnia. So the WCRC would include trazodone in a WCMSA if used to treat insomnia, if it is related to the workers’ compensation injury.Compounded Drug Products
Pharmacy compounding is a practice in which a licensed pharmacist combines, mixes, or alters ingredients in response to a prescription, to create a medication tailored to the medical needs of an individual patient. Compounding drugs outside of the FDA-approved labeling is a trend seen in WC cases, especially with pain medications compounded for topical administration. Under the Part D Benefit, compounded prescription drug products can contain all, some, or no Part D drug product components. Only costs associated with those components that satisfy the definition of a Part D drug are allowable costs under Part D because the compounded products as a whole do not satisfy the definition of a Part D drug. Further, bulk products are not covered under Part D because they are not prescription drug products that are approved under sections 505, 505(j), or 507 of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act. Overall, many of the compounded drugs the WCRC sees in WCMSAs are formulated from bulk compounds; these are sometimes listed as powders, and would not be considered covered under the Part D benefit, and thus are excluded from WCMSAs. You can also find this guidance in Chapter 6 of the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Manual at https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Prescription-Drug- Coverage/PrescriptionDrugCovContra/PartDManuals.html on the CMS website.Hydrocodone Combination Products
Hydrocodone combination products were reclassified effective October 2014 from C-III controlled substances to C-II controlled substances. Normally, C-IIIs require a new prescription after five refills or after six months, whichever occurs first. C-IIs require new prescriptions at intervals no greater than 30 days; however, a practitioner may issue up to three consecutive prescriptions in one visit authorizing the patient to receive a total of up to a 90-day supply of a C-II. WCMSA guidelines changed on January 1, 2015 for all new cases submitted after that date to allocate a minimum of 4 healthcare provider visits per year when schedule II controlled substances (including hydrocodone combination products) are used continuously, unless healthcare provider visits are more frequent per medical documentation.Benzodiazepines and Barbiturates
The WCRC will include benzodiazepines and barbiturates in WCMSAs effective June 1, 2013. Benzodiazepines and barbiturates are new to the Part D Benefit since January 1, 2013. For 2013 and future years, all medically accepted indications for benzodiazepines will be covered. For barbiturates, in 2013, only those used in the treatment of epilepsy, cancer, or a chronic mental health disorder will be covered, but in 2014 all medically accepted indications will be covered. Example: a case submitted on June 1, 2013 includes a barbiturate used for the treatment of headache. This will not be covered in 2013, as this is not being used for the treatment of epilepsy, cancer, or a chronic mental health disorder, but will be covered in 2014. Another example: temazepam for the treatment of insomnia would be covered and should be included in a WCMSA effective June 1, 2013. Cases submitted or reopened on or after June 1, 2013, will need to include benzodiazepines or barbiturates when prescribed. The October 2, 2012, CMS memorandum to Part D Sponsors concerning the transition to Part D coverage of benzodiazepines and barbiturates is available on the CMS website.PRN or As-Needed Drugs
Many drug products in workers’ compensation are used on an as-needed basis. This is rightfully so, as many drug products are used to relieve pain on an as-needed basis. There are drug products that may be used as needed, but there are other drug products that should be used continuously. When allocating as-needed (PRN) drugs, the WCRC first assesses if the drug should or may be used under a PRN designation or if the claimant is just being non-compliant or non-adherent. Note: non-compliance or non-adherence is not a reason to reduce a WCMSA amount. The WCRC defines PRN drugs as those with a variable usage in a two-month or greater period within the last year of pharmacy claims records, as long as the variability is not related to non- adherence. They also assess the medical records to determine how the PRN drugs are documented. For example, is the prescription written using a PRN frequency? If so, this signals a possibility that as-needed use may occur in the future. Reviewers at the WCRC assess the past pharmacy and medical history in these cases to determine a reasonably probable usage of these drugs in the future. For example, some things the WCRC considers are:- Is the claimant’s condition improving?
- Is the claimant’s condition getting worse?
- Has the drug usage gone up or down in the past three to six months?
- Has the claimant started on any other medication that may reduce the as-needed drug usage?
- Has the claimant received a medical intervention that has changed their medical situation so as to reduce their drug usage, or has their condition declined that they may need more drug usage in the future?
Physician-Dispensed Drugs
The WCRC is aware that many physician-dispensed drugs (i.e., dispensed from a physician’s office) will be classified as Part D drugs when a claimant uses their Part D Benefit. Physician- dispensed drugs are common in WC cases. For example, in 2010 and 2011, over half (53%) of all prescriptions in the California’s Workers’ Compensation System were physician dispensed. When this occurs, the WCRC understands that there will be little documentation in carrier records. The WCRC evaluates the medical records in this circumstance. It is very important for the WCRC to receive clear treating physician records. The WCRC may request further records if they are unable to interpret the complete drug regimens in these circumstances.Part B Drugs and Drug Prices
In general, there are five major categories of Medicare Part B drug spending. (This information can also be found in the introduction to Chapter 6 of the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Manual- Drugs billed by physicians and typically provided in physicians’ offices (such as chemotherapy drugs, or local anesthetic or steroid injections). For example, epidural steroid injections are common in this area.
- Drugs billed by pharmacy suppliers and administered through DME, such as respiratory drugs given through a nebulizer or IT pain
- Drugs billed by pharmacy suppliers and self-administered by the patient (such as immunosuppressive drugs and some oral anti-cancer drugs).
- Separately billable drugs provided in hospital outpatient
- Separately billable ESRD drugs such as
Intrathecal (IT) Pain Pump Pricing (Part B)
Another component of Part B drugs is the IT pain pump. The file “Payment Allowance Limits for Medicare Part B Drugs” on the CMS website also depicts drug pricing for DME infusions, the drugs delivered using the IT pain pump. When an IT pain pump is needed in a WCMSA case, the WCRC prices the IT pain pump replacement cost and reprogramming office visits per fee schedule. The WCRC assumes a 7-year lifetime per IT pain pump. This is based on historical pain pump failure rates from IT pain pump manufacturers. The Implantable Systems Performance Registry is a prospective, long-term, multi-center registry study that details this information. The WCRC puts separate line items in the approval letters with regard to the reprogramming costs, drug costs, and replacement costs. For drug costs, the WCRC takes into account the IT pain pump volume, concentration, refill frequency, and specific J-code when pricing.Dual-Designation Drugs
Dual-designation drugs are drugs that are scheduled or approved both over-the-counter (OTC) and in a prescription version. One drug in this category is omeprazole. Omeprazole 20 mg is approved both as an OTC drug and in the prescription format. The WCRC allocates omeprazole when it is used in its prescription format, as it would qualify under the Part D benefit. This could be based on evidence from the medical records, pharmacy records, or both. Some have argued that omeprazole is not a Part D drug, but when dispensed by prescription, it is.Drug Weaning/Tapering
Drug weaning commonly occurs with pain medications, such as opioids, especially when claimants’ work injuries improve. The WCRC takes all evidence of drug weaning into account, although in most circumstances the WCRC cannot assume that the weaning process will be successful. Usually, the latest weaned dosage is extrapolated for the life expectancy, but again, they assess all records when making these types of determinations. Where a treating physician believes tapering is possible and in the best interests of the claimant, CMS will consider all evidence in making a WCMSA determination, including medical evidence of current actual tapering.Drug Contraindications, Drug Warnings and Precautions, and Drug Interactions
A drug contraindication is when a drug should not be used at all. This is when the risk of a drug clearly outweighs the benefit. A warning and precaution is intended to identify and describe a discrete set of adverse reactions, or other potential safety hazards that are serious or are otherwise clinically significant, as they have implications for prescribing decisions. These are not contraindications, and in some circumstances the benefit of a drug outweighs its risk even when a warning and precaution is present. Drug interactions can fall into both categories, as a contraindication or as a warning and precaution. Here are some examples to clarify further, starting with a contraindication. For example, a claimant has a paralytic ileus and has been prescribed a fentanyl patch. This is contraindicated for paralytic ileus, so the drug should not be used. The WCRC rarely sees drugs that are contraindicated within WCMSAs. However, the WCRC commonly sees drugs being used that come under the heading of warnings and precautions. For example, using fentanyl patches again: if a claimant is prescribed erythromycin (an antibiotic) and fentanyl patches at the same time, an interaction occurs increasing the concentration of fentanyl. This is not a contraindication, but is a warning and precaution. The WCRC would still set aside for erythromycin in this case as it is not contraindicated, and if the claimant may have or has tolerated this in the past. Overall, it is very rare that the WCRC would reduce a prescription set-aside allotment due to a drug warning and precaution as defined by the FDA. If a claimant is tolerating a drug interaction that falls into a warning and precaution, it is important to set aside for these drugs in order to protect Medicare’s interests.9.5 Regional Office Receipt
When the WCRC completes its review and recommendation, the case is sent to the RO assigned to the case based on the claimant’s state of residence and CMS’ state and region logic. Although the RO assignment is based on the state of residence of the beneficiary, a case may be transferred from one RO to another based on the case’s legal state of venue, or because the RO that the case was originally assigned to no longer processes WCMSA cases. When the RO receives the case, they review the WCRC recommendation and make a final determination in the case. The case may not progress to approval for a number of reasons:- If the RO determines that the case does not qualify as a WCMSA case because it does not meet CMS’ workload review threshold for any reason, the RO notifies the submitter.
- If the claimant becomes deceased during the RO review of the WCMSA case submitted, and a date of death with supporting documentation, if requested, is provided, then a date of death is entered into the CMS WCMSA system and the case status is changed to “Deceased.”
- If the RO needs additional information or documentation from the submitter in order to continue processing the WCMSA case, the submitter is notified with a development letter. When documentation is received and scanned at the BCRC, the status of the case changes to “Development Received,” and the RO begins the review again. If a response is not received within the allotted time frame (i.e., 30 days for cases submitted to the BCRC, 20 business days for cases submitted on the WCMSAP), the case is closed for lack of response. If a response is received after the case is closed, CMS will reopen the case but treat it as a new
- The RO may determine that the case should be closed. This can happen for a number of reasons, including: the parties are no longer settling, the case should be Black Lung instead of WC, the case is a Liability rather than WC case, or the submitter has failed to submit necessary information after repeated development requests. The submitter is notified of the case
9.6 Final Determination
If the claimant is living, the case meets workload review thresholds, any needed development has been received, and the case is not closed for other reasons, the RO reviews the WCRC’s recommendation and makes a determination as to the final CMS-approved WCMSA amount. When the final WCMSA amount is determined by the RO, the RO approves the case and the submitter is notified. After receiving the final settlement agreement, according to the applicable state law, the RO updates Medicare’s records with the final settlement date. Note: A case may be re-reviewed once an amount has been approved prior to settlement, but Medicare’s records will not change until the new final determination is issued. Only then is the disposition recorded in Medicare’s system.10.0 Information Needed for WCMSA Submission
When a WCMSA is submitted for approval, CMS must have certain documentation available to complete a review of the proposal. Table 10-1 lists the documents normally submitted with a WCMSA proposal. It includes the section number, the document name, and whether the document is required. CMS recommends that documents submitted be labeled according to the section number to which they belong. For example, when submitting an electronic Consent to Release note, the first two characters of the file name should correspond to the Consent to Release Section Number (10) e.g., 10AttorneyJonesConsent.PDF. Cases using this or a similar format are generally processed more quickly with fewer errors and development requests, resulting in faster determinations at lower cost to submitters and the government.Table 10-1: WCMSA Document Requirements Checklist
| Section # | Document Name | For more Information Go To |
| 05 | Cover Letter | Reference Guide Part 10.1 |
| 10 | Consent To Release Note | Reference Guide Part 10.2 |
| 15 | Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy | Reference Guide Part 10.3 |
| 20 | Life Care / Future Treatment Plan | Reference Guide Part 10.4 |
| 25 | Settlement Agreement or Proposed or Court Order | Reference Guide Part 10.5 |
| 30 | WCMSA Administration Agreement | Reference Guide Part 10.6 |
| 35 | Medical Records | Reference Guide Part 10.7 |
| 40 | Payment History | Reference Guide Part 10.8 |
| 50 | Supplemental or Additional Information | Reference Guide Part 10.9 |
10.1 Section 05 – Cover Letter
The cover letter is required with your WCMSA submission. It is used to present CMS with a high-level overview of all of the information that is included in the WCMSA proposal. It is important to include as much information as possible in the cover letter rather than simply referring to the different sections that are included in your submission. Include all pertinent names, addresses, phone and fax numbers; all demographic information about the claimant; and all summary numbers and other data for the settlement and the WCMSA. This helps CMS review the proposal more quickly. Please submit the following information in the format as noted:A. Claimant (Injured Party) Information:
- Name – Claimant first, middle, and last
- Address – Claimant mailing address (street, city, state, & ZIP code).
- Phone & Fax Numbers – Telephone number where claimant can be reached (including area code) and fax number, if applicable.
- HICN or SSN – Claimant’s Medicare Health Insurance Claim Number as displayed on their Medicare card, or their Social Security Number if the claimant is not yet entitled to Medicare.
- Gender – Claimant’s sex (male/female).
- Date of Birth – Claimant’s date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy).
- Median Rated Age – A rated age is the age of the claimant that has been adjusted to take into consideration the impact of pertinent medical conditions and impairments. The median (not mean) rated age shall be used where more than one rated age is
- Life Expectancy Used in Proposal – The expected number of years of life remaining at the claimant’s given age. The CMS computes the claimant’s life expectancy as of the date WC carrier or plan responsibility is expected to end and claimant responsibility is expected to begin for medical expenses related to the work injury, using the Centers for Disease Control table (please see Section 15 – Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy for additional information).
- Consent to Release note is included in submission – Yes/No.
B. Claimant Entitlement Information:
- Is the claimant entitled to Medicare? Yes/No.
- When the claimant is not currently enrolled in Medicare, indicate if any of the following situations apply to the claimant or if another situation will result in the claimant being enrolled in Medicare within 30 months of the date of
C. Injury Information
- Description of Injury – Submit a description of the work-related injuries sustained, which major body part(s) were affected (e.g., head, arm, leg, etc.) and the cause of illness/injury, with diagnosis
- Date of Injury/Illness (DOI) as defined by CMS – List all date(s) of injury/illness being settled (mm/dd/yyyy). List the oldest first. Show first and last dates of any cumulative traumas. For claims involving cumulative injury, CMS’ definition of the DOI is the earlier of the date that treatment for any manifestation of the cumulative injury began, when such treatment preceded formal diagnosis; or the first date that formal diagnosis was made by any medical
- For an automobile collision or other type of accident, the date of incident is the date of the
- For claims involving exposure (including, for example, occupational disease and any associated cumulative injury) the DOI is the date of first
- For claims involving ingestion (for example, a recalled drug), it is the date of first ingestion.
- For claims involving implants, it is the date of the implant (or date of the first implant if there are multiple implants).
Notes:
- CMS’ definition of the DOI generally differs from the definition routinely used by the insurance/WC industry only for claims involving exposure, ingestion, or implants.
- If multiple WC settlements are included in one WCMSA submission, make sure the cover letter addresses how to handle the settlements (one WCMSA, or each settlement in a separate WCMSA).
D. Contact Information:
- Submitter – Name, address, phone & fax of person/entity submitting the
- MSA Administrator – Identify the person/entity responsible for control and documentation of proper expenditures from the WCMSA. Identify if the administrator is the claimant or a professional
- If the administrator is the claimant, and they have an SSA Representative Payee (i.e., an individual or organization appointed by the SSA to receive Social Security and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for someone who
- If the administrator is a professional administrator, provide their name, address, phone, and
- Claimant’s Attorney – Provide the name address, telephone number, and fax number for the claimant’s
- Employer – Provide the name address, telephone number, and fax number for the claimant’s
- Employer’s Attorney – Provide the name, address, telephone number, and fax number for the employer’s attorney if they have prepared documentation for the proposed
- WC Carrier – Provide the name, address, telephone number, and fax number for the employer’s insurance
- WC Carrier’s Attorney – Provide the name address, telephone number, and fax number of the carrier’s attorney if they have prepared documentation for the proposed
E. Settlement Details
- Total settlement amount – Submit the gross total settlement amount as a single lifetime number and NOT the settlement amount minus attorney fees, expenses,
- The computation of the total settlement amount includes, but is not limited to, an allocation for future prescription medications of the type normally covered by Medicare, in addition to allocations for other Medicare covered and non-covered medical expenses, indemnity (lost wages), attorney fees, set-aside amount, non- Medicare medical costs, payout totals for all annuities rather than cost or present values, settlement advances, lien payments (including repayment of Medicare conditional payments), amounts forgiven by the carrier, prior settlements of the same claim, and liability settlement amounts on the same WC injury (unless apportioned by a court on the merits).
- The total settlement amount excludes prior contested awards by a court on the merits, as well as past payments of indemnity or medical expenses that were not part of settlements, and liens and other amounts that the claimant will pay from the settlement funds. CMS does not consider medical malpractice settlements based on alleged mishandling of the WC injury to be part of the WC
- Use exact amounts, not “under” or “over” a given dollar
- For any cases involving a second injury fund or a “reopener” (common in New Jersey and Oklahoma):
- Include any prior settlement amounts in the total settlement amount, as well as any second injury fund settlement (in New Jersey) or “3e” settlement (in Oklahoma) being made at the same time the main injury is
- Do not include in the total settlement amount any estimated amounts for settlements contemplated for the future but not being made at the time of the main injury
- Where there are no drugs prescribed for the work-related injury or if prescription drugs are excludable under Medicare Part D, the cover letter should contain an
- If annuities are involved, use the lifetime payout amount in the total instead of annuity purchase price and include the annuity rate sheet to support your calculation. In order to determine the total settlement amount when using an annuity, please be advised that Medicare determines the value of the annuity based on how much the annuity is expected to pay over the life of the settlement, not on the present-day value (PDV) or cost of funding that annuity. The WCMSA does not need to be indexed for
- Total proposed Medicare set-aside amount – Provide the amount of the medical benefits that you propose to be placed in the WCMSA for future items/services that would otherwise be covered by Medicare (this is separate from wage/indemnity benefits). If the settlement does not specify a total amount for future medical treatment, explain why it does not. Identify separately the appropriate future expenses that might otherwise be paid by Medicare. Outline future non-Medicare covered expenses not included in the WCMSA, e.g., outpatient prescription
- Provide the portion of set-aside for medical items and
- Identify the calculation method used to determine the amount for future medical treatment: WC State fee schedule, or full actual
- Provide the portion of set-aside for prescription drugs. If the WCMSA cover letter fails to include a separate projected amount for future prescription drug costs, one of two results will follow:
- If the available medical records indicate medications have been or are expected to be prescribed for WC-related injuries, CMS will calculate and price these medications at AWP based on brand-name
- If the claimant’s current treatment records contain no indication that prescription drugs will be needed in the future, CMS will accept that Medicare’s interests have been adequately protected with a $0 projection for future prescription drug expenses. This assumes that the WCMSA provisions regarding other future WC related medical expenses are
- Identify if the set-aside is paid out as a lump sum or an annuity. If the set-aside is paid out as an annuity, identify the following:
- Name of the carrier
- Cost of the annuity
- Proposed initial deposit (seed money)
- Minimum annual deposit for the balance of the claimant’s life
- Annuity starting date
- Length of annuity
- Annual payout of annuity
- Annual funding date
Example:
Total WCMSA = $301,826.90 Cost of first surgery and the first procedure/replacement = $10,191.40 Life expectancy of claimant = 28 years: Step 1. Identify the total estimated future medical services and prescription drugs covered by Medicare ($301,826.90) Step 2. Identify the cost of the first surgery and the first procedure/replacement ($10,191.40) Step 3. Subtract Step 2 from Step 1 ($291,635.50) Step 4. Divide the result from Step 3 by the life expectancy (28) to get the annual medical costs ($291,635.50 / 28) = $10,415.55 Step 5. Multiply the result from Step 4 by 2 ($10,415.55 x 2 = $20,831.10) Step 6. Calculate the seed money to be deposited upon settlement by adding the amount calculated in Step 2 to the amount calculated in Step 5 ($10,191.40 + 20,831.10 = $31,022.50) Step 7 Calculate the minimum annual deposit for the balance of the claimant’s life by subtracting the seed money (Step 5) from the total WCMSA (Step 1) ($301,826.90 – $31,022.50 = $270,804.40) and dividing this by the life expectancy minus one (28 – 1 = 27): $270,804.40/27 = $10,029.79. The minimum annual deposit for the balance of this claimant’s life is $10,029.79. This deposit must be made no later than one year from the date of settlement.- Identify the state of jurisdiction/venue. Identify the state (including Washington, DC, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands) where the WC hearing will be held. Show state, District of Columbia, or U.S.
Tips for submission
- Ensure that the proposed set-aside is a proposed lifetime (not annual) set-aside amount.
- Ensure that it clearly shows how much of the proposed set-aside is for medical services and how much is for prescription
- Ensure the medical services proposed amount plus the prescription drug proposed amount adds up to the total proposed
- Verify that any pricing charts are consistent with the amounts listed in your cover letter.
- Ensure that the proposed amount is consistent with the court documents, or that any differences are
- If annuities are involved, use lifetime payout amounts instead of annuity purchase prices, and include amount of proposed seed money/initial deposit and annual deposit.
10.2 Section 10 – Consent to Release Note
The Consent to Release note is the claimant’s signed authorization for CMS, its agents and/or contractors to discuss his or her case/medical condition with the parties identified on the authorization in regard to the WC settlement that includes a WCMSA. When you submit your WCMSA, you are required to include the signed consent, plus any applicable court papers if the consent is signed by someone other than the claimant (for example, a guardian, power of attorney, etc.). Do not include unsigned consents or consents to obtain medical records from a provider. If there is a change in submitter, please see Section 19.4 for more information. Please see Figure 10-1, which is a template that can be used to assist you in completing a valid Consent to Release note. Please see Figure 10-2, which is an example of a Consent to Release note with instructions for completing it.Figure 10-1: Blank Consent to Release Note
10.3 Section 15 – Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy
This section is where you have the option to provide all rated ages obtained on the claimant, even those that appear to have expired or appear not to be independent. If the rated age is not provided, CMS will estimate the claimant’s remaining life expectancy using the actual age. If the actual age is being used, do not include any statements or documents in this section. When submitting one or more rated ages with a request for CMS approval of a WCMSA, the following criteria must be met in order for the rated age to be considered in reviewing the case:- Rated age confirmation with original proposal documents as outlined in current procedure memorandums. CMS will not accept any variation or substitute wording. As of June 30, 2010, the statement is as follows: “Our organization certifies that all rated ages we have obtained/and or have knowledge of regarding this claimant, and generated at any time on or after the Date of Incident for the alleged accident/illness/injury/incident at issue, have been included as part of this submission of a proposed amount for a Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.” If this specific language is not included as part of the WCMSA proposal, CMS will not accept the RA provided. Instead, CMS will estimate the claimant’s remaining life expectancy using Actual
- A stand-alone statement indicating that all rated ages obtained on the claimant are included.
- Each rated age is presented on company letterhead for each insurance company (or companies) that made the rating and for each settlement broker that obtained them from the insurance company. Note: Letterhead includes the name and address of the insurance company or settlement
- All rated age sources shall be independent, in fact and appearance, of the submitter, carrier, and claimant.
- If more than one rated age is submitted, CMS will use the median of all rated ages submitted.
- When multiple rated ages are provided, the submitter becomes subject to enforcement of the requirement to use the median rated age and must provide all rated ages to
- All rated ages shall be accompanied by a written justification on how such age was determined. For example, if a rated age obtained from life insurance companies for like injuries/illnesses is the method of evaluation, include documentation to support the life expectancy. CMS will project the cost of the claimant’s future treatment over the claimant’s life expectancy, using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Tables (http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr61/nvsr61_03.pdf).
Do not include the following:
- Actuarial charts or life expectancy charts from the CDC or elsewhere, or statements that there are no rated
- Do not include any documents on rated ages that contain redacted data. They will not be
10.4 Section 20 – Life Care / Future Treatment Plan
For the purpose of evaluating plan proposals, either a Life Care Plan or Future Treatment Summary is required for submission. A Life Care Plan is a dynamic document based on published standards of practice, comprehensive assessment, data analysis, and research that provides an organized concise plan for current and future needs with associated costs for individuals who have experienced catastrophic injury or have chronic health needs. A life care plan is appropriate when the claimant’s injury or disease is extensive and serious, e.g., paraplegia, quadriplegia, brain damage. Although submission of a life care plan is optional, you are required to include drug and dosage lists. Include all pricing charts, cost projections, pricing information, and explanatory narratives and analyses. When the parties to a WC settlement present CMS with “life care plans” or similar evaluations prepared by non-treating physicians to support and justify their proposed WCMSAs, Medicare will consider accepting such evaluations if the physician does all of the following:- Examines the claimant;
- Reviews the claimant's medical records;
- Contacts any of the claimant's treating physicians (if applicable);
- Is available to answer CMS’ questions;
- Prepares a report that summarizes the above; and
- Offers a written medical opinion as to all of the reasonably anticipated future medical needs of the claimant related to the claimant's work injury or illness/disease.
10.4.1 Current Treatment
Provide the treatment/services that the claimant regularly receives. The current treatment should give an indication that the work-related condition is stable (or at least is not getting worse). The summary of current treatment should be supported by a minimum of two years of medical documentation and a comprehensive payment history from the WC Carrier (including indemnity payments). See section 10.7 for details on medical records submission. If the work-related injury occurred less than two years from the date of the WCMSA submission, supporting medical documentation should date back to the date of the work-related injury. Also note any relevant past treatment, such as surgery, that the claimant may have undergone.10.4.2 Future Treatment
Determine the cost of future medical expenses and prescription drugs that are directly related to the injury or illness suffered by the worker. This amount can be determined by reviewing medical records and past medical and prescription expenditures. The WCMSA must show the amount of money that should be invested to provide for the yearly expenses for the worker’s life expectancy. Note: In order to protect Medicare’s interests, a WCMSA should be funded based on the life expectancy of the claimant unless state law specifically limits the length of time that WC covers work-related conditions. The key is that both the principal amount that is to be set aside and the anticipated interest that it will earn must be sufficient to provide for the worker’s future medical treatment and administration fees for the worker’s lifetime. Identify specific types of medical services or items, the frequency and duration of the medical services or items, and the projected costs of the medical services or items related to the work injury or disease that are expected in the future in light of the claimant's condition.- Include ICD-9 or ICD-10 diagnosis codes if available. Do not use ICD-9 codes for submissions with a DOI on or after 10/1/2015; do not mix ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes in one submission. (ICD-9 codes will continue to be allowed on submissions with a DOI of 9/30/2015 or )
- Appropriately identify the information by both Medicare-covered services and services not covered by
- Future treatment must be based on the evaluation and recommendation of a physician(s), e.g., the primary care physician, orthopedic surgeon, or other specialist (if applicable).
- An independent medical examination (IME) may be sufficient under certain circumstances, e.g., claimant has not received treatment in several years, and there is no primary care
- The claimant’s condition and medical care required in the future must be documented in written evaluations, reports, and/or letters from a physician(s).
- Living arrangements that affect the medical benefits of the settlement should be noted, such as nursing homes or assisted living
- Prescription drugs must be included even if the claimant is not yet a Medicare Part D beneficiary, if the current treatment records or future care plan support the use of drugs in treating the claimant’s WC
- A physician visit every 6 months with an estimated cost of $75 per
- Physical therapy (PT) - 12 sessions per year for only the next 3 years with estimated cost of $50 per session
- An x-ray every 3 years with an estimated cost of $100 per x-ray (including interpretation)
- An MRI every 5 years with an estimated cost of $1,500 per MRI (including interpretation)
- Maintenance dose of prescription pain medication at $8 per month for 12 months per year
- Inpatient hospitalization every 10 years with an estimated cost $10,000 per hospitalization
- The projected total costs in this case are $49,180 as listed
- Physician visits @ $4,500 ($75 x 2 x 30)
- PT @ $1,800 ($50 x 12 x 3)
- X-rays @ $1,000 ($100 x 10)
- MRIs @ $9,000 ($1,500 x 6)
- Medication @ $2,880 ($8 x 12 x 30)
- Hospitalizations @ $30,000 ($10,000 x 3)
10.5 Section 25 – Settlement Agreement or Proposed or Court Order
The parties can proceed with the settlement of the medical expenses portion of a WC claim before CMS actually reviews the proposed WCMSA and determines an amount that adequately protects Medicare's interests. However, approval of the WCMSA is not effective until a copy of the final executed WC settlement agreement, which must include the approved WCMSA amount, is received by CMS. No statement in the settlement of the amount needed to fund the WCMSA is binding on CMS unless and until the parties provide CMS with documentation that the WCMSA has actually been funded for the full amount that adequately protects Medicare's interests as specified by CMS as a result of its review. Include only official documents, such as WC petitions, mediation documents, prior awards and settlements, court orders, draft and final settlement agreements, and annuity rate sheets. If CMS does not subsequently provide approval of the funded WCMSA amount as specified in the settlement or proof is not provided to CMS that the CMS-approved amount has been fully funded, CMS may deny payment for services related to the WC claim up to the full amount of the settlement. Only the approval of the WCMSA by CMS and the submission of proof that the WCMSA was funded with the approved amount, would limit the denial of related claims to the amount in the WCMSA. This shall be demonstrated by submitting a copy of the final, signed settlement documents indicating the WCMSA is the same amount as that recommended by CMS. The claimant may be at risk if the WCMSA is funded for less than the amount that CMS determines to be adequate to protect Medicare's interests.Reminder:
- If the case has already settled, please provide the settlement
- If there is a proposed settlement date in the future, please provide that
- If the settlement date is unknown, CMS will default to using four months from the date of submission as the proposed settlement
10.5.1 Indicate How Much of the Settlement is for Past v. Future Medical Expenses
If the settlement does not specifically account for past versus future medical expenses, it will be considered to be entirely for future medical expenses once Medicare has recovered any conditional payments it made. This means that Medicare will not pay for medical expenses that are otherwise reimbursable under Medicare and are related to the WC case, until the entire settlement is exhausted. Example: A beneficiary is paid $50,000 by a WC carrier, and the parties to the settlement do not specify what the $50,000 is intended to pay for. If there is no CMS-approved WCMSA, Medicare will consider any amount remaining after recovery of its conditional payments as compensation for future medical expenses. Additionally, please note that any allocations made for lost wages, pre-settlement medical expenses, future medical expenses, or any other settlement designations that do not consider Medicare's interests, will not be approved by Medicare. Example: The parties to a settlement may attempt to maximize the amount of disability/lost wages paid under WC by releasing the WC carrier from liability for medical expenses. If the facts show that this particular condition is work-related and requires continued treatment, Medicare will not pay for medical services related to the WC injury/illness until the entire settlement has been used to pay for those services.10.5.2 Use of WC Fee Schedule vs. Actual Charges for WCMSA
CMS uses either the WC fee schedule (for states that have such schedules) or the full actual charges for its review of a proposed WCMSA based on whichever methodology is used by the individual or entity submitting the proposal. Note: The following states do not have a fee schedule: Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Do not use a fee schedule in a state that does not have a fee schedule. The CMS reviews WCMSAs on a case-by-case basis in order to determine whether Medicare has an obligation for services provided after the settlement that originally were the responsibility of the WC plan or insurer. Accordingly, in reviewing a WCMSA, CMS must know whether the arrangement is based on WC fee schedule amounts or full actual charge amounts.10.5.3 Total Settlement Amount
The computation of the total settlement amount includes, but is not limited to, an allocation for future prescription medications of the type normally covered by Medicare, in addition to allocations for other Medicare covered and non-covered medical expenses, indemnity (lost wages), attorney fees, set-aside amount, non-Medicare medical costs, payout totals for all annuities rather than cost or present values, settlement advances, lien payments (including repayment of Medicare conditional payments), amounts forgiven by the carrier, prior settlements of the same claim, and liability settlement amounts on the same WC claim (unless apportioned by a court on the merits).10.6 Section 30 – WCMSA Administration Agreement
The WCMSA can be administered either by the claimant (i.e., self-administered, if permitted under state law) or by a third-party trustee, such as a guardian or trust company. (See the Administrators section of this guide for more information.) When a claimant designates a representative payee, appointed guardian/conservator, or has otherwise been declared incompetent by a court; the settling parties should include that information in this section. Include any official stand-alone agreement that provides the name and address of the administrator of the WCMSA.10.7 Section 35 – Medical Records
Include the first report of injury, medical records of major surgeries, and medical records for the last two years of treatment, no matter how long ago those last two years were or who paid for the services. Also include depositions from medical providers. Ensure that any “last treatment date” mentioned in the life care plan, carrier letter, or payment history is accompanied by a medical record that matches that date, as well as all medical records for the last two years prior thereto. Submitters will find guidance on signature requirements for medical records in the following document: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/downloads/R327PI.pdfSubmit the following:
- All medical records from all treating physicians for the last two years of treatment for the work-related injury, even if the WC carrier has not paid for the treatment and even if the treatment was long ago. Remember, CMS needs medical records for the last two years of treatment, which may not be within the last two calendar
- If the claimant has not been treated by any doctor for any reason within the last two calendar years, CMS generally needs all treating physicians to state when the last two years of treatment for any reason occurred. The treating physicians must also state, in writing, the specific condition/injury the claimant was last treated for, and any related therapy.
- Provide medical documentation (legible recently-dated pharmacy printouts or statements from all treating physicians) that specify medication, strength/dosage, and
- Submit medication information, along with any explanations, for those medications that the claimant is taking that are not related to the
- Submit drug, dosage, and frequency information from all pharmacies and treating/prescribing physicians. Please review current procedure memorandums for further guidance of prescription drug
Do not submit:
- Independent medical evaluations. These are not treatment records, nor are invoices or insurance forms. (They may be appropriate to determine future treatment requirements under certain circumstances; they are not appropriate as medical )
- Incomplete or insufficient medical treatment records for the last two years of treatment or incomplete/insufficient medical records for that period. Some examples of this include:
- A statement from the carrier or attorney that no treatment is being provided; the claimant is only receiving medications
- Incomplete or insufficient proof of drugs, dosages, and frequencies for the last two years of treatment. Some examples of this include:
- A letter from the carrier or its attorney indicating that no payments were made for medications
- Information regarding the names of medications and strength/dosages, but without frequency information
10.8 Section 40 – Payment History
Send an all-inclusive payment history (that is, medical, indemnity, and expenses) from all carriers, third-party administrators (TPAs), employers, pharmacies, and prescription drug suppliers dated within the last six months of submission or reopening of the proposal, showing all payments made (including payment date, payee, date of service, and amount).Submit the following:
- Any signed statements from carriers or their attorneys with payment information or the last date of treatment. Include billing information where paid claims information is not available, such as for physician-dispensed medications.
- A letter from the carrier or its attorney stating the date the carrier’s payment history was generated, if not shown on the history
- A letter from the carrier or its attorney explaining why there is no printable history if the carrier made no payments of medical, indemnity, or expenses, and did not even set up settlement reserves for the
- The entire pay history for all proposals asserting a denial of any
Do not submit:
- A payment history with medical payments only, indemnity payments only, or expense payments only, with no
- A payment history dated more than six months before the case is submitted. Submit as up-to-date a history as
- A statement that there is no payment history attached since the claimant has not been treated in the last two years. Submit a clear explanation if there is no
10.9 Section 50 – Supplemental or Additional Information
Use this section to provide miscellaneous documentation that did not fit in one of the other sections, but that has direct bearing on the proposal’s requirements. For example, this is where you would include a copy of the claimant’s official birth certificate and driver’s license where the date of birth is unclear in other documentation; a copy of a state law that the submitter discusses elsewhere, and a photocopy of Social Security or Medicare card or correspondence if needed to verify Social Security or Medicare number or entitlement. Do not include copies of documents sent by CMS to the WCMSA submitter.11.0 How do I submit a WCMSA?
A WCMSA can be submitted in one of two ways: electronically through the WCMSA Portal (WCMSAP) on the internet, or by paper submission through the mail. The portal method is preferred. Note: WCMSAs are handled in the order they are received regardless of the submission method.11.1 Electronic Submission via the WCMSAP
A WCMSA can be submitted to CMS electronically through the WCMSAP. This is the preferred method for submission. Each individual or entity that wishes to use or access the portal must complete the WCMSAP registration process. To get started, go to: https://www.cob.cms.hhs.gov/WCMSA/ and click [I Accept] to agree to the terms for using the site. The Welcome to the WCMSAP page displays. Click [New Registration] and follow the instructions on the screen. All contact information will be submitted in the New Registration step. Once this step is completed, you will be assigned an Account ID and Personal Identification Number (PIN). You will use this information to complete Step 2 of the process, Account Setup. For more information, refer to the How to Get Started help page which is located under the How To menu option on the Welcome to the WCMSAP page and the WCMSAP User Manual which is located under the Reference Materials option on the Welcome to the WCMSAP page. Note: CMS recommends that you read the entire manual before attempting to make a submission via the portal.11.1.1 Benefits of Using the WCMSAP
The WCMSAP was designed to improve the efficiency of the submission process for WCMSAs, including speeding receipt of the proposal by the WCRC, quicker turnaround times for submissions, and case access for the submitter. The WCMSAP allows attorneys, beneficiaries, claimants, insurance carriers, representative payees, and WCMSA vendors to create a work-in- progress case, submit WCMSA cases, perform case lookups, and append documentation to a case. Using the portal to submit a case means the submitter no longer has to burn PDF files to a CD for mailing. Instead, the submitter can gather the WCMSA proposal and its supporting documentation for direct upload to the system. This is easier for the submitter, potentially avoids processing complications, and streamlines the process. With the WCMSAP, registered participants may upload an unlimited number of cases for review. With instant access, submitters can confirm the status of a case at any point. Submitters may also append additional documentation in response to development requests and submit final, approved settlement documents as a final step to the process.11.2 Paper Copy/CD Submission via the Mail
All WCMSA proposals that are mailed to CMS for review must be sent to the following address: WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-889911.2.1 Paper Copy
When a WCMSA proposal is submitted via hard copy, the submitter must comply with the requirements outlined in the Information Needed for WCMSA Submission section of this Reference Guide. Note: Hard copy submission is not recommended as it is very time consuming to complete the review request. If submission is not possible using the online portal, CD submission is the next best method.11.2.2 CD
When a WCMSA is submitted on a CD, the submitter must comply with the requirements outlined in the Information Needed for WCMSA Submission section of this Reference Guide, and the additional requirements outlined below. Additional requirements for CD submissions:- Information provided on a CD must be in PDF format. The file extension must be .pdf.
- All documents submitted on the CD must be listed in the same order as specified in Table 10-1: WCMSA Document Requirements Checklist.
- Categorize the files based on the following codes and use the associated code as the prefix in the file-naming convention:
- 05 - Submitter Cover Letter
- 10 - Consent to Release Note
- 15 - Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy
- 20 - Life Care / Future Treatment Plan
- 25 - Settlement Agreement or Proposed or Court Order
- 30 - WCMSA Administration Agreement
- 35 - Medical Records
- 40 - Payment History
- 50 - Supplemental or Additional Information For example, a CD might contain the following files:
- Medical records must be submitted in chronological
- All documents on the CD must be identified on an index by page
- Place files directly on the CD so that they can be viewed immediately once the CD is opened. Do not save the file in a
12.0 What Happens after a WCMSA Has Been Submitted?
Once you have submitted a WCMSA proposal, you will receive an acknowledgement letter. If you do not receive an acknowledgement letter, please contact the BCRC at 1-855-798-2627 or TTY/TDD: 1 -855-797-2627 for the hearing and speech impaired. Customer Service Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, except holidays. When CMS has reviewed the WCMSA, it will respond in one of several ways. CMS may:- Ask for additional information (this is called Development);
- Send a written determination approving the WCMSA at the proposed amount or at an amount CMS devises;
- Send notice that your submission was below the threshold necessary for Medicare review; or
- Send a rejection
13.0 Sample Submission
A sample submission is included in Appendix 4. This sample is not a required form or format. Each state has unique forms. The intent of the sample document is to aid submitters in organizing the information that is typically sent to CMS with their WCMSA proposals. Procedures relating to WCMSAs are published on the CMS web site. (Please see the following link: https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa on the CMS website.). Where any conflict is perceived between statements or information in this sample and official CMS published procedures, the latter controls.14.0 Tips for Improving Your WCMSA Review Process
- Do not submit any WCMSA proposal to CMS unless it meets the following workload thresholds for review:
- The claimant has a “reasonable expectation” of Medicare enrollment within 30 months of the settlement date and the anticipated total settlement amount for future medical expenses and disability/lost wages over the life or duration of the settlement agreement is expected to be greater than $250,000, OR
- The claimant is currently a Medicare beneficiary and the total settlement amount is greater than $25,000. Please note: Regardless of the low dollar threshold, Medicare beneficiaries should always consider Medicare’s interest in all WC cases and ensure that Medicare is secondary to
- Submit complete case files with your set-aside proposals on the WCMSAP using Table 10-1: WCMSA Document Requirements Checklist and the Sample Submission provided in this Reference
- If you are planning to submit more than 200 pages of information or more than two years of medical records, it is helpful to contact the WCRC first to discuss if it is all
- Do not resubmit previously submitted documents unless you have confirmed that they were not received. If you are unsure what is needed, call the WCRC (toll-free at 1-833- 295-3773 between 9am-5pm EST, Monday thru Friday) to see if what you are sending will be
- Respond to letters and telephone requests for information in a timely manner and completely, with special attention to request letters printed in ALL
- Check the status of your case via the portal if you submitted on the
- Contact the WCRC in regard to the status of a case that was submitted via mail. Please allow 45 business days after the submission of a complete file before contacting the WCRC for a status
15.0 Review Process and Policies
Please see the WCMSA Submission Process Overview for more information on the submission and review process.15.1 Time Frame
When you submit a WCMSA for review, CMS tries to review and decide on proposed settlements within 45 to 60 days from the time that all relevant documents are submitted. Parties to the settlement may settle the indemnity (non-medical-expenses) portion of the claim separately from the WCMSA portion, in order to avoid having indemnity payments continue while CMS is still reviewing the proposal. CMS will still consider the whole claim, including indemnity, in its threshold calculations.15.2 Criteria
The WCRC will consider the following factors in making a decision about your case:- What is the past medical payment history for this case? Has Medicare or WC paid bills related to the case already? If so, what are they? In particular, bills paid by WC in the first one to two years after the condition is stabilized may indicate likelihood of particular medical expenses; any bills paid by Medicare will be recovered, and may indicate the case has compromise
- What is the claimant’s date of Medicare entitlement?
- What is the basis of Medicare entitlement: disability, ESRD, or age?
- What is the type and severity of the claimant’s injury or illness?
- Is full or partial recovery expected?
- If so, in what time frame?
- Is the individual an amputee, paraplegic or quadriplegic as a result of the work injury?
- Is the claimant’s condition stable, or might it improve or get worse?
- How old is the claimant? Is the WC injury likely to shorten the claimant’s lifespan?
- What is the claimant’s WC classification (e.g., permanent partial, permanent total disability, or a combination of both)?
- How much is the settlement, and how is it allocated? Is it based on fee schedules or full actual charges?
- How long is the settlement intended to last: for the claimant’s lifetime, or for a specific period?
- If not for a lifetime, how long, and are allocations consistent across the proposed settlement? For example, if the funds for pain and suffering are based on the claimant’s lifetime, and the funds for future medical expenses are based on a shorter time period, Medicare will not accept the WCMSA as it
- What is the State law regarding how long WC is obligated to cover the items or services related to the accident or illness?
- If the claimant is living in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or the like, does the settlement consider who should pay for such care? How long will the claimant be living in which situations?
- Does the WCMSA cover appropriate medical items and services for the claimant’s condition? Are likely complications included?
15.2.1 Compromise of Future Medical Expenses
CMS does not compromise or reduce future medical expenses related to a WC injury. Some submitters have argued that 42 C.F.R. § 411.47 justifies reduction to the amount of a WCMSA. The compromise language in this regulation only addresses conditional (past) Medicare payments. The CMS does not allow the compromise of future medical expenses related to a WC injury. In addition, CMS has no process to accept up-front cash payments in lieu of a CMS reviewed WCMSA.15.2.2 No Waivers of Specific Services Related to Future Medicals
There are no means by which a claimant can permanently waive his or her right to certain specific services related to a WC case and, thereby, reduce the amount of a WCMSA. CMS cannot approve settlements that promise not to bill Medicare for certain services in lieu of including those services in a WCMSA. This is true even if the claimant/beneficiary offers to execute an affidavit or other legal document promising that Medicare will not be billed for certain services if those services are not included in the WCMSA.15.3 Case Status and Communications
You can see your case’s status on the WCMSAP, if the case was submitted on the Portal. For cases that were submitted via mail, case status can be obtained by contacting the WCRC. Any alerts and notifications from CMS will arrive via the same medium in which you submitted your case, either through the Portal or physical mail. The letters that are currently generated in the WCMSA process and the parties (excluding the submitter) that receive the letters are listed below:- Acknowledgement (cc to beneficiary/claimant): indicates that the WCMSA has been received and notifies the submitter that it will be prioritized for review in the order in which it was
- Below Threshold (cc to beneficiary/claimant, beneficiary’s attorney, and BCRC): case did not meet the threshold for review (i.e., the case has a total settlement amount of
- Development (cc to beneficiary/claimant): case requires additional information in order to be
- Zero Set-Aside (cc to beneficiary/claimant, beneficiary’s attorney, and BCRC): indicates that the settlement has been approved with a Medicare Set-Aside Amount of zero
- Approval including recommendation attachments (cc to beneficiary/claimant, beneficiary’s attorney, and BCRC): indicates that CMS has reviewed the WCRC’s recommendation for the WCMSA and has made a determination as to the final WCMSA amount. Note: The case will not be considered final until CMS receives the final settlement with the appropriate WCMSA amount. CMS may approve a WCMSA for a different amount than originally proposed. See section 0 for more information on recourse if you disagree with CMS’ assessment.
- Closeout (cc to beneficiary/claimant): supplemental information requested in the development letter was not provided in a timely manner. The case is now
16.0 Re-Review
When CMS does not believe that a proposed set-aside adequately protects Medicare’s interests, and thus makes a determination of a different amount than originally proposed, there is no formal appeals process. However, there are several other options available. First, the claimant may provide the WCRC with additional documentation in order to justify the original proposal amount. If the additional information does not convince the WCRC to change the originally submitted WCMSA amount and the parties proceed to settle the case despite the lack of change, then Medicare will not recognize the settlement. Medicare will exclude its payments for the medical expenses related to the injury or illness until WC settlement funds expended for services otherwise reimbursable by Medicare use up the entire settlement. Thereafter, when Medicare denies a particular beneficiary’s claim, the beneficiary may appeal that particular claim denial through Medicare's regular administrative appeals process. Information on applicable appeal rights is provided at the time of each claim denial as part of the explanation of benefits. A request for re-review may be submitted based one of the following:- Mathematical Error: Where the appropriately authorized submitter or claimant disagrees with CMS’ decision because CMS’ determination contains obvious mistakes (e.g., a mathematical error or failure to recognize medical records already submitted showing a surgery, priced by CMS, that has already occurred), or
- Missing Documentation: Where the submitter or claimant disagrees with CMS’ decision because the submitter has additional evidence, not previously considered by CMS, which was dated prior to the submission date of the original proposal and which warrants a change in CMS’ determination, or
- Amended Review: Where the following criteria are met, CMS will permit a one-time request for re-review in the form of a submission of a new cover letter, all medical documentation related to the settling injury(s)/body part(s) since the previous submission date, the most recent six months of pharmacy records, a consent to release information, and a summary of expected future
- CMS has issued a conditional approval/approved amount at least 12 but no more than 48 months prior,
- The case has not yet settled as of the date of the request for re-review.
- Projected care has changed so much that the submitter’s new proposed amount would result in a 10% or $10,000 change (whichever is greater) in CMS’ previously approved
- Where a re-review request is reviewed and approved by CMS, the new approved amount will take effect on the date of settlement, regardless of whether the amount increased or
- This new submission may be delivered in both paper and portal formats. Please see the WCMSAP User Guide for more
- Line items that were included in the approved amount, but are for care that has already been provided to the beneficiary. Please identify where references to records indicating that the care has already been provided can be found in the updated
- Line items for care that is no longer required. Please identify where references to replacement treatment can be found in the updated
- If additional care is required that was not otherwise included in CMS’ conditional approved amount, please add line
16.1 Required Resubmission
Where a proposed WCMSA amount has been closed due to inactivity for one year or more from the original date of submission, a full-file resubmission will be required. You may also submit the re-review request to WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement, P.O. Box 138899, Oklahoma City, OK, 73113-8899. CMS will consider this re-review request in order of receipt as if it were a new WCMSA proposal submission.17.0 Account Set-Up and Administration
17.1 Administrators
WCMSAs should be administered by a competent administrator (a professional administrator, the representative payee, the claimant, etc.). When a claimant designates a representative payee, appointed guardian/conservator, or has otherwise been declared incompetent by a court; the settling parties must include that information in their WCMSA proposal to CMS. Claimants may also administer their own WCMSAs, if State law allows. Claimants should submit annual self-attestations, just as a professional administrator would. This arrangement is subject to the same rules and reporting requirements as any other WCMSA. See section 17.5 for more on this annual attestation. Although beneficiaries may act as their own administrators, it is highly recommended that settlement recipients consider the use of a professional administrator for their funds.17.2 Interest-Bearing Account
You must deposit the total WCMSA amount (future medical treatment and future prescription drug treatment) in an interest-bearing account, separate from any other account such as personal savings or checking.17.3 Use of the Account
WCMSA funds may only be used to pay for medical services and prescription drug expenses related to your work injury. WCMSA funds may only be used to pay for those expenses that would normally be paid by Medicare. Examples of some items that Medicare does not pay for are: acupuncture, routine dental care, eyeglasses or hearing aids; therefore, these items cannot be paid from the WCMSA account. For a more extensive list of services not covered by Medicare, get a copy of the booklet “Medicare & You” from your Social Security office or from https://www.medicare.gov/medicare-and-you/medicare-and-you.html. If you have a question regarding Medicare’s coverage of a specific item, service, or prescription drug, to determine if you may pay for it from the WCMSA account, please call 1 800- MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit CMS’ website: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Medicare.html. Please note: If payments from the WCMSA account are used to pay for services other than Medicare-allowable medical expenses related to medically necessary services and prescription drug expenses, Medicare will not pay injury-related claims until these funds are restored to the WCMSA account and then properly used up.17.4 Medicare Entitlement and WCMSAs
Your Medicare entitlement status may change over time. Your use of the WCMSA should not. Use of the WCMSA is limited to services that are related to the WC claim or settlement and that would be covered by Medicare if the individual were a Medicare beneficiary. The same requirements that Medicare beneficiaries follow for reporting and administration are to be used by non-beneficiaries as well. The CMS will not pay for any expenses related to the WC claim or settlement until a self-attestation document with full accounting of all monies expended from the WCMSA is sent to the BCRC upon Medicare entitlement or re-establishment of Medicare entitlement. At that time, the BCRC will update the records Medicare uses in the claims process. Even if there is no CMS-approved WCMSA, any funds from a WC settlement attributable to future medicals that are remaining at the time a claimant becomes a Medicare beneficiary must be used for Medicare-covered services related to the WC claim or settlement until such funds are exhausted. Only then will CMS pay for Medicare-covered services related to the WC claim or settlement.17.4.1 Loss of Medicare Entitlement after CMS Approval of a WCMSA
Claimants are not entitled to release of WCMSA funds if they lose their Medicare entitlement. However, the funds in the WCMSA may be used for medical expenses specified in the WCMSA until Medicare entitlement is re-established or the WCMSA is exhausted.17.4.2 Use of WC Settlement Funds Prior to Medicare Entitlement
For claimants who are not yet Medicare beneficiaries and for whom CMS has reviewed a WCMSA, the WCMSA may be used prior to becoming a beneficiary because the accepted amount was priced based on the date of the expected settlement.17.5 Annual Attestation and Record-Keeping
The administrator of the account will be responsible for keeping accurate records of payments made from the account. These records may be requested by CMS as proof of appropriate payments from the WCMSA account. (For more on Medicare contractors’ monitoring accounts, see Section 18.0.) Every year, beginning no later than 30 days after the 1-year anniversary of settlement, the administrator must sign and send a statement that payments from the WCMSA account were made for Medicare-covered medical expenses and Medicare-covered prescription drug expenses related to the work-related injury, illness, or disease. This annual attestation must be submitted no later than thirty days after the end of each year, beginning one year from the establishment of the WCMSA account. Annual self-attestation should continue through depletion of the WCMSA account. A final self-attestation should be forwarded to CMS once the WCMSA account becomes permanently depleted. CMS has the right to demand and receive a complete accounting of payments made from the account at its discretion. Blank attestation letters with the appropriate identification numbers are included in the approval package sent by CMS. This letter includes the total amount of WCMSA outgoing payments that should separately identify the amounts spent for medical treatment and for prescription drug treatment. For example, if the total WCMSA amount in CMS’ written opinion is $10,000 ($7,000 identified for future prescription drug treatment and $3,000 identified for future medical expenses), then the administrator must send an annual attestation that identifies how much of the $10,000 was spent for medical expenses and how much was spent for prescription drugs. If you use the account funds appropriately on injury-related expenses that might otherwise have been covered by Medicare, you may reallocate the relative amounts for medical expenses vs. prescription drugs. For example, you may have set aside $7,000 for prescription drugs and $3,000 for medical expenses, and you may instead spend $6,000 and $4,000 respectively. CMS will still consider the $10,000 appropriately spent. You may use the WCMSA account to pay for the following costs that are directly related to the account:- document copying charges
- mailing fees/postage
- any banking fees related to the account
- income tax on interest income from the set-aside account You may not use the WCMSA account to pay for:
- administrative fees
- expenses for administration of the WCMSA
- attorney costs for establishing the WCMSA
17.6 MyMedicare.gov Link
For convenience of the beneficiary, the CMS has enabled a link under https://www.mymedicare.gov/ that will allow beneficiaries to review, in a view-only fashion, all documents submitted on their behalf to ensure transparency. Beneficiaries need only apply for a MyMedicare.gov login user identification and password, and the feature will already be populated in that system. Note: If beneficiaries have questions regarding the information in the MSA Cases or Detail Form, they should contact their attorney, submitter, or other representative before contacting Medicare. When your case settles, please provide Medicare’s contractor with a copy of the following at the address listed below:- The dated settlement agreement signed by all parties showing the total amount of the settlement and WCMSA amount(s).
18.0 CMS’ Monitoring
CMS will not monitor the money spent from the WCMSA until the claimant becomes Medicare- eligible (a beneficiary). However, if you have a WCMSA as part of your settlement, the WC- related medical expenses should be paid from the WCMSA even before the claimant becomes a beneficiary. Medicare beneficiaries and claimants who are not yet beneficiaries follow the same reporting rules discussed in section 17.5 above. When the RO approves a WCMSA, CMS will check the National Medicare Enrollment database regularly to find out when a claimant becomes enrolled in Medicare. Once the claimant is enrolled in Medicare, the BCRC is responsible for monitoring the individual’s case. The WCMSA administrator must send annual attestations summarizing the account transactions to the contractor responsible for monitoring the case. The contractor is then responsible for verifying that the funds from the WCMSA were spent on medical services for Medicare-covered services, or to pay the tax for the interest income from the account. Additionally, the contractor must ensure that Medicare makes no payments related to the WC injury until the WCMSA has been used up.19.0 What Happens if Circumstances Change?
19.1 WCMSA is Under-Funded
Medicare does not make any payment until the MSPRC can verify that the funds apportioned to the period, including any carry-forward amount, have been completely exhausted as set forth in the WCMSA.19.2 Death of the Claimant
If a claimant dies before the WCMSA is completely exhausted, the RO and the BCRC will ensure that all claims have been paid. Then any amount left over in the WCMSA may be disbursed pursuant to state law, once Medicare’s interests have been protected. This may involve holding the WCMSA open for some period after the date of death, as providers, physicians, and other suppliers are permitted to submit their initial bill to Medicare for a period of 12 months after the date of service. Often, the settlement itself will dictate the appropriate dispersal of funds upon the death of the claimant.19.3 Structured WCMSA Funds Topics
19.3.1 Funds Left Over/Carried Forward
If funds for a structured WCMSA are not exhausted during a given period, then excess funds must be carried forward to the next period. The threshold after which Medicare would begin to pay claims related to the injury would then be increased in any subsequent period by the amount of the carry-forward. Example: A structured set-aside is designed to pay $20,000 per year over the next 10 years for an individual’s Medicare-covered services. Medicare would begin paying covered expenses in any given year after this $20,000 is exhausted. However, in 2012 the injured individual needs only $15,000 to cover all related expenses. The administrator would need to carry forward the excess $5,000 into 2013. Therefore, in 2013 a total of $25,000 of Medicare-covered expenses would need to be spent for services otherwise reimbursable by Medicare before Medicare would begin to cover WC related expenses, but only for the balance of 2013. This carry-forward process continues until the accumulated carry-forward plus the payment for a given year is exhausted.19.3.2 Funds Used in a Given Period
If a structured WCMSA proves to be under-funded for a given period because the funds are exhausted by the claimant’s medical expenses before the period ends, and if CMS receives verification of exhaustion of both the structured amount for the period and any available roll- over funds, then Medicare will pay for additional medical expenses incurred during the period.19.4 Change of Submitter
If there is a change in submitters. CMS requires a written release from services by the original submitter and a new signed Consent to Release form authorizing the new submitter. Both must be provided in order to continue the WCMSA review process. Submitter changes will not be accepted after settlement, and does not constitute a reason for a re-review (See Section 16.0 for re-review requirements). CMS will not provide copies of existing documentation to the new submitter. Any documentation must be obtained from the incumbent submitter.Appendix 1. Contact Information
For general questions not answered by this guide:
Call the Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center (BCRC) at 1-855-798-2627 or TTY/TDD: 1-855-797-2627 for the hearing and speech impaired, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Time, except holidays.To report a Workers’ Compensation incident:
Call the 800 number above or write: Medicare—Medicare Secondary Payer MSP Claims Investigation Project P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-8897Where to submit a proposed Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside proposal:
If submitting the proposal electronically, please use the Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement Portal (WCMSAP) at https://www.cob.cms.hhs.gov/WCMSA/ If submitting the proposal on paper or CD, mail to: WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-8899For Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Portal issues (e.g., password resets, or the status of portal account registration):
Call the EDI Department at (646) 458-6740.To check the status of a WCMSA proposal submitted online via the portal:
Log in to the portal at https://www.cob.cms.hhs.gov/WCMSA/ (Note: The WCMSAP will only display case information, including case status, for those cases that were submitted through the web portal).To check the status of a WCMSA proposal submitted on paper or CD:
Please call the WCRC at 833-295-3773.To submit a re-review request:
For a proposal originally submitted electronically, use the portal at https://www.cob.cms.hhs.gov/WCMSA/Or submit on paper or CD to:
WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement- Box 138899
For questions about Medicare’s coverage of a specific item, service, or prescription drug, to determine if you may pay for it from your WCMSA account:
Please call 1 800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) Or visit CMS’ website: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Medicare.htmlFor questions about WCMSA set-up or administration, please contact the Regional Office assigned to you.
For a list of Regional Offices with contact information, visit CMS’ website: https://cms.gov/RegionalOffices/Appendix 2. Abbreviations List
AWP Average wholesale price BCRC Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center CDC Centers for Disease Control CLBP Chronic low back pain CMS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services COB Coordination of Benefits CPT Current Procedural Terminology CT Computerized Tomography DME Durable Medical Equipment DOI Date of incident or injury DRG Diagnosis-Related Groups ESRD End-stage renal disease FDA Food and Drug Administration HCPCS Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System HICN Health Insurance Claim Number HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ICD International Classification of Diseases IME Independent medical examination IT Intrathecal MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging MSP Medicare Secondary Payer NCPDP National Council of Prescription Drug Programs NDC National Drug Code ORM Ongoing responsibility for medicals OTC Over-the-counter PDV Present-day value POA Power of Attorney PRN Pro re nata, Latin for as-needed PSD Proposed settlement date PT Physical therapy RA Rated age RO Regional Office SCS Spinal cord stimulator SSDB Social Security Disability Benefits SSA Social Security Administration SSI Supplemental Security Income SSN Social Security Number TENS Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TPA Third-party administrator TSA Total settlement amount WC Workers’ Compensation WCMSA Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement WCMSAP WCMSA Portal WCRC Workers’ Compensation Review ContractorAppendix 3. Glossary
Average wholesale price
AWP is used to price Medicare Part D drugs included in the calculations for the WCMSA funding amount.Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center
The BCRC performs a number of functions for CMS, the pertinent one for this guide being the receipt and initial processing of hard copy WCMSA proposals.Centers for Disease Control
The CDC provides annual life expectancy tables used in the calculations for the WCMSA funding amount.Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
CMS is the government agency responsible for administering Medicare and Medicaid.Claimant
A person who submits a WC claim. A claim is a request for payment for services and benefits you received.Commutation
WC commutation cases are settlement awards intended to compensate individuals for future medical expenses required because of a work-related injury or disease. Cases may have both compromise and commutation aspects.Compromise
WC compromise cases are settlement awards for an individual’s current or past medical expenses that were incurred because of a work-related injury or disease. Cases may have both compromise and commutation aspects.Conditional payment
A payment made by Medicare for services for which another payer is responsible.Date of incident or injury
For claims involving cumulative injury, CMS’ definition of the DOI is the earlier of: the first date that formal diagnosis was made by any medical practitioner; or the earliest date of treatment for any manifestation of the cumulative injury, when such treatment preceded formal diagnosis.Determination
CMS’ decision about whether the proposed WCMSA includes enough money to cover the claimant’s anticipated future medical claims that would otherwise be covered by Medicare. If CMS disagrees with the proposed amount, the determination will include the amount CMS determines is appropriate.Development
The process of collecting additional information about a case. CMS will issue a development letter to a claimant who provided insufficient information in a WCMSA submission, and the case will be in development until sufficient information is obtained.Durable medical equipment
DME includes oxygen and respiratory therapy equipment, hospital beds, wheelchairs and other walking aids, and other such devices and equipment used in the home or in an institution serving as a home.End-stage renal disease
A person with ESRD may qualify for Medicare benefits.Food and Drug Administration
The US FDA is the governmental body responsible for regulating prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as medical devices.Health Insurance Claim Number
The HICN is an identification number assigned by the Social Security Administration to Medicare beneficiaries.Independent medical examination
An IME may be used as part of the supporting documentation in a WCMSA proposal.Lump sum settlement
A settlement in which the agreed-on funds are paid out in one amount.Medicare
The federal health insurance program for: people 65 years of age or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure with dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD).Medicare Secondary Payer
MSP is the term used by Medicare when Medicare is not responsible for paying first. With the addition of the MSP provisions to federal law in 1980 (and subsequent amendments), Medicare is secondary payer to group health plan insurance in specific circumstances, but is also secondary to liability insurance (including self-insurance), no-fault insurance, and Workers’ Compensation.National Drug Code
The NDC is a unique number assigned to pharmaceuticals.Present-Day Value
PDV is the cost to fund a WCMSA annuity.Regional Office
A CMS RO is assigned to each WCMSA case, and that RO makes the final determination of the appropriate funding level for the WCMSA.Social Security Number
The SSN is an identification number issued by the Social Security Administration, and used instead of a HICN when a HICN is not present.Structured settlement
A settlement in which the agreed-on funds are paid from an initial deposit and subsequent deposits on a regular basis for a given amount of time.Submitter
The person who sends a WCMSA application to CMS. This may be someone acting on the claimant’s behalf.Third-party administrator
A TPA may administer a funded WCMSA.Threshold
The minimum qualities needed for CMS to review a WCMSA submission.Verification letter
A letter that confirms a WCMSA does not need to be reviewed. CMS will not issue such letters.WCMSA Portal
The WCMSAP may be used to submit and view WCMSA proposals, to communicate about the review approval process, and to submit re-review requests.Workers’ Compensation
WC is a government program set up to provide wage replacement and medical benefits to workers injured on the job.Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement
A WCMSA is set up to ensure that all future medical and drug or pharmacy expenses for a work-related injury otherwise payable by Medicare are covered by a WC settlement.Workers’ Compensation Review Contractor
The WCRC is responsible for reviewing WCMSA proposals and issuing final determinations.Appendix 4. WCRC Proposal Review Reference Tools
Table Appendix 4-1: WCRC Proposal Review Reference Tools
| Tool | Description |
| CMS Memos | https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coordination-of-Benefits-and-Recovery/Workers- Compensation-Medicare-Set-Aside-Arrangements/WCMSA- Memorandums/Memorandums.html CMS has issued memorandums since 2001 on a variety of topics related to WCMSAs, such as review thresholds, pricing of services and prescription drugs, rated ages, life expectancy, and more. The WCRC follows all CMS memorandums currently in effect. The memorandums are published on the CMS website. |
| Milliman | https://www.mcg.com/ Milliman offers various clinical tools and allows search of diagnosis and procedural codes for a code description or search by description to obtain codes. It is helpful for identifying proper procedural code selection for medical services. This source also has care guidelines for various clinical conditions and is a source for evidence- based medicine guidelines. |
| MediRegs | https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/solutions/legal-regulatory MediRegs provides an extensive database payment tool and is used for pricing inpatient services and outpatient surgery with crosswalk to CPT codes. This tool allows updated access to reimbursement cost per facility in each state. The tool offers additional resources for searching Medicare coverage guidelines (national and local). |
| PubMed | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/ PubMed comprises more than 22 million citations for biomedical literature from MEDLINE, life science journals, and online books. Citations may include links to full-text content. |
| MicroMedex/ DrugDEX | http://www.micromedexsolutions.com/ MicroMedex/DrugDEX is the primary resource to access information regarding medications. The DrugDEX profile provides information regarding the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) indications and compendia supported off-label uses of prescription drugs. This resource assists in determining whether a prescription drug that is prescribed for WC condition(s) is appropriate for inclusion in the WCMSA. |
| Stat!Ref | http://www.statref.com/ Stat!Ref is the secondary resource to access information regarding medications. The profiles are less detailed than DrugDEX profiles. However, there are many useful clinical tools such as a medical dictionary, profiles on clinical conditions and evidence-based medicine references. |
| Red Book | http://truvenhealth.com/products/micromedex/product-suites/clinical- knowledge/red-book Red Book is the source for pricing prescription drug products. The database compiles Average Wholesale Prices (AWP) for various drug products. |
| Tool | Description |
| DailyMed | https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/about.cfm DailyMed provides information about marketed drugs including FDA labels (package inserts). The website provides a look-up and download resource of medication content and labeling as found in medication package inserts. It is searchable by drug name, National Drug Code number, drug class, SetID, and label type. At present, the site does not contain a complete listing of labels for approved prescription drugs. Drugs marked “unapproved” have not been reviewed by the FDA. |
| FDA Website: Approved Drugs | https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/drugsatfda/ Drugs@FDA provides a searchable directory of official information about FDA approved innovator and generic drugs and therapeutic biological products. It allows for location of labels for approved drug products, generic drug products for an innovator drug product, therapeutically equivalent drug products for an innovator or generic drug product, consumer information for drugs approved from 1998 on, all drugs with a specific ingredient, and the approval history of a drug. It is a source for prescription and over-the-counter human drugs and therapeutic biologicals currently approved for sale in the US, discontinued drugs, and Chemical Type 6 approvals. |
| FDA Website: NDC Directory | https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ndc/default.cfm The FDA NDC Directory identifies drug products using a unique, three-segment number called the National Drug Code (NDC). Listing information in the NDC Directory is currently updated every Monday. Search is available by proprietary name, active ingredient, NDC number, application number, or labeler name. |
| FDA Website: Orange Book Equivalents | https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/default.cfm The FDA Orange Book Equivalents is a directory of approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations and identifies drug products approved on the basis of safety and effectiveness by the FDA. The database contains prescription and OTC medications. Search is available by proprietary name, active ingredient, patent, applicant holder, or application number. Daily Electronic Orange Book updates are provided for product information for new generic drug approvals. |
Zero Set-Aside Letter
‹‹Date›› ‹‹Submitter Name›› ‹‹Address›› ‹‹City, State, ZIP›› RE: Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement ‹‹Claimant›› ‹‹SSN or HICN›› ‹‹Date of Injury›› ‹‹CMS Case Control Number›› Dear Sir or Madam: This letter is in response to your submission of a proposed Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) amount, related to the above-named claimant’s workers’ compensation claim, received on ‹‹date››. You proposed that no WCMSA amount is required to pay for future medical items and services, including prescription drugs, that are covered and otherwise reimbursable by Medicare (Medicare covered), related to the claimant’s workers’ compensation claim. We have evaluated your proposal along with the supporting medical documentation you submitted and have determined that Medicare’s interests have been adequately considered. Therefore, no WCMSA amount is deemed necessary in this case. Please note that this decision regarding future medical treatment is independent of any determination regarding Medicare Secondary Payer recovery rights for conditional payments Medicare made for related items and services furnished before the date of the settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Medicare has the right to recover (or take back) Medicare payments related to any workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Any payments Medicare may have made that should have been paid from the workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment must be repaid to Medicare. This decision regarding the WCMSA is not effective until CMS receives a copy of the final executed WC settlement agreement. Please include the CMS Case Control Number listed at the top of this letter in any correspondence. Submit your settlement agreement via the Portal if your original submission was via the Portal. If you originally submitted outside of the Portal, submit the settlement agreement to the following address: WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-8899 If your settlement agreement is 10 pages or less, you may also fax it to (405) 869-3306. Note: This number is not for initial submissions, only for additional documentation under 10 pages. If you have any questions concerning this letter, please call ‹‹RO contact›› at ‹‹RO phone number››.Below Threshold Letter
‹‹Date›› ‹‹Submitter Name›› ‹‹Address›› ‹‹City, State, ZIP›› RE: Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement for: ‹‹Claimant›› ‹‹SSN or HICN›› ‹‹Date of Injury›› ‹‹CMS Case Control Number›› Dear Sir or Madam, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has received your correspondence regarding the proposed workers’ compensation (WC) settlement that includes future medical benefits for the above-named claimant. If the Social Security Number (SSN) above is incorrect, you must provide CMS with the correct SSN or a Health Insurance Claim Number (Medicare number) within ‹‹# of days›› of the date of this letter. Based on the information you provided, we are unable to identify this claimant as a Medicare beneficiary, and we do not believe the claimant has a reasonable expectation of becoming a beneficiary within 30 months of the anticipated settlement date. CMS will only review proposed Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) amounts from claimants who are not Medicare beneficiaries when the total settlement amount is greater than $250,000. CMS does not issue “verification” letters confirming that approval of a WCMSA is unnecessary when a WC settlement is $250,000 or less. This is a CMS workload management tool and not a substantive dollar or “safe harbor” threshold. Therefore, due to resource constraints, CMS will not review this case because the facts presented do not meet the above thresholds. However, WC claimants must still consider Medicare’s interest in all cases and ensure that Medicare pays secondary to WC in such cases. Please visit the Coordination of Benefits & Recovery (COB&R) Workers’ Compensation website at https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa for more information, including the WCMSA Reference Guide, which contains detailed information for WCMSA submitters. Please note that this decision regarding future medical treatment is independent of any determination regarding Medicare Secondary Payer recovery rights for conditional payments Medicare made for related items and services furnished before the date of the settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Medicare has the right to recover (or take back) Medicare payments related to any workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Any payments Medicare may have made that should have been paid from the workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment must be repaid to Medicare. If you have further questions, please contact ‹‹RO contact›› at ‹‹RO phone number››. Sincerely, ‹‹RO Name›› cc: ‹‹cc names››Beneficiary Below Threshold Letter
‹‹Date›› ‹‹Submitter’s Name›› ‹‹Address›› ‹‹City, State, ZIP›› RE: Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement for ‹‹Claimant›› ‹‹HICN/SSN›› ‹‹Date of Injury›› ‹‹CMS Case Control Number›› Dear Sir or Madam: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has received your correspondence regarding a proposed Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) amount for the above-named claimant. Based on the information you provided, we have identified the above-named claimant as a Medicare beneficiary. If the Health Insurance Claim Number (HICN) listed above is incorrect, you must provide CMS with the correct HICN within ‹‹# of days›› of the date of this letter. CMS will only review proposed WCMSA amounts for Medicare beneficiaries when the total settlement amount is greater than $25,000.00. CMS does not issue “verification” letters confirming that approval of a WCMSA is unnecessary when the workers’ compensation settlement is $25,000.00 or less. This is a CMS workload management tool and not a substantive dollar or “safe harbor” threshold. Therefore, due to resource constraints, CMS will not review this case because the facts presented do not meet the above thresholds. However, claimants must still consider Medicare’s interest in all workers’ compensation cases and ensure that Medicare pays secondary to workers’ compensation in such cases. Please visit the Coordination of Benefits & Recovery (COB&R) Workers’ Compensation website at https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa for more information, including the WCMSA Reference Guide, which contains detailed information for WCMSA submitters. Please note that this decision regarding future medical treatment is independent of any determination regarding Medicare Secondary Payer recovery rights for conditional payments Medicare made for claim-related items and services furnished before the date of the settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Medicare has the right to recover (or take back) Medicare payments related to any workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. Any payments Medicare may have made that should have been paid from the workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment must be repaid to Medicare. If you have any questions concerning this letter, please contact ‹‹contact name›› at ‹‹contact phone number››.Development Letter
‹‹Date›› ‹‹Submitter Name›› ‹‹Address›› ‹‹City, State, ZIP›› RE: Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement for: ‹‹Claimant›› ‹‹HICN or SSN›› ‹‹Date of Injury›› ‹‹CMS Case Control Number›› Dear Sir or Madam, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has received your request to review a proposed Workers' Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) amount for the above-named claimant. Please note that the items indicated on the enclosure are missing from the above-referenced case and we cannot complete a review of the proposed WCMSA amount without this information. The requested information must include the CMS Case Control Number listed above and should be submitted according to the information provided on the enclosure no later than ‹‹# of days›› from the date of this letter. Failure to provide the information requested may result in Medicare denying payment for future medical and prescription drug expenses related to the workers’ compensation claim up to the total amount of the settlement. Once all requested information is received, CMS will complete its review of the proposed WCMSA amount.Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Workers' Compensation (WC) Medicare Set-Aside Proposal
Requirements Checklist ‹‹Date›› ‹‹Claimant›› ‹‹Case Number›› Please submit only the item(s) indicated below no later than ‹‹# of days›› from the date on this document. Please include the CMS Case Control Number listed at the top of this letter in any correspondence. Submit the requested documents via the Portal if your original submission was via the Portal. If you originally submitted outside of the Portal, submit the requested documents to the following address: WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-8899 If the requested documents total 10 pages or less, you may also fax them to (405) 869-3306. Note: This number is not for initial submissions, only for additional documentation under 10 pages. For more details on any of the below requests, see the WCMSA Reference Guide, available through https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa on the CMS website. If you have further questions, please contact ‹‹RO contact›› at ‹‹RO phone››.A cover letter must include the following information for all WCMSA proposals:
- Claimant’s Name
- Claimant's Date of Birth
- Claimant's Health Insurance Claim Number (HICN) or Social Security Number (SSN) if claimant is not yet entitled to Medicare
- Claimant’s Address and Phone Number – The address is used primarily for (1) mailing copies of CMS correspondence and (2) for information purposes when the claimant is also the administrator of the WCMSA
- Claimant’s Release – Claimant's signed authorization for CMS, its agents, and contractors to discuss his or her case and medical condition with parties to a WC settlement that includes a Medicare Set-Aside arrangement (sample format attached).
- Claimant’s Counsel – Name, address, and telephone number
- Entitlement Information – Indicate if the claimant is currently enrolled in Part A and Part B of Medicare or in Part A
- Employer's Information – Name, address, and phone number
- WC Insurer – Name, address, and phone number of employer's insurance company
- State of Venue – Name of state where WC hearing is being
- Attorney Representing Employer or WC Insurer – Name, address, and phone number if employer's or WC Insurer's attorney has prepared documentation for the WCMSA.
- Injury/Disease Date – The date the injury
- Type of Injury/Disease – A brief description of the work-related injury, illness, or disease sustained including the diagnosis codes, if
- Total WC Settlement Amount – Including the WCMSA amount, plus the amount provided for all other aspects of the settlement. Do NOT provide the settlement amount minus attorney fees, expenses, etc. The total settlement amount is calculated by totaling the following items:
- Amount(s) for wage replacement and disability
- Amount(s) for future medical treatment
- Amount(s) for future prescription drug treatment
- Attorneys’ fees
- Amount(s) for repayment of conditional payments
- Payout totals for all annuities to fund the above expenses (DO NOT use costs or present values of any annuities)
- Amount of any previously settled portion of the WC claim
- Proposed Medicare Set-Aside Amount – Proposed amount to be placed in a WCMSA account for future medical and prescription drug expenses that would otherwise be paid by
Documentation that must be available to CMS prior to the approval of a WCMSA amount:
- Life Expectancy – Provide an evaluation of whether the claimant's condition would shorten the life span or a copy of state law that specifically limits the length of time that WC covers work-related conditions. If a rated age obtained from life insurance companies for like injuries or diseases is the method of evaluation, include documentation to support the life expectancy. CMS will project the cost of the claimant’s future treatment over the claimant’s life expectancy using the most recent table listed on the Centers for Disease Control website (https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/life_tables.htm).
- Life Care Plan – A life care plan is appropriate when the claimant’s injury/disease is extensive/serious, e.g., paraplegia, quadriplegia, brain
- Proposed WC Settlement Agreement – Provide a copy of the proposed settlement agreement.
- Current Treatment – Provide the treatment/services that the claimant regularly receives. For detailed requirements, see the WCMSA Reference Guide on the CMS website at http://go.cms.gov/wcmsa.
- Future Treatment – Identify specific types of medical services and items, their frequency and duration, and their projected costs related to the workers’ compensation claim that are expected in the future in light of the claimant's condition. For detailed requirements, see the WCMSA Reference Guide on the CMS website at http://go.cms.gov/wcmsa.
- A physician visit every 6 months with an estimated cost of $75 per visit
- Physical therapy (PT) for 12 sessions per year for only the next 3 years with estimated cost of $50 per session
- An x-ray every 3 years with an estimated cost of $100 per x-ray (including interpretation)
- An MRI every 5 years with an estimated cost of $1,500 per MRI (including interpretation)
- Inpatient hospitalization every 10 years with an estimated cost $10,000 per hospitalization
- a) Physician visits @ $4,500 ($75 x 2 x 30) b) PT @ $1,800 ($50 x 12 x 3)
- c) X-rays @ $1,000 ($100 x 10) d) MRIs @ $9,000 ($1,500 x 6)
- e) Hospitalizations @ $30,000 ($10,000 x 3)
- Prescription Drug Information – Identify the total amount of the WC settlement that is designated for future prescription drug treatment (separate from the future medical treatment). If no amount is designated for future prescription drug treatment, please provide an
- Patient Medical Recovery Prognosis – Describe the expected recovery, e.g., full or partial. Describe the projected recovery period. Identify the date at which the patient achieved maximum medical improvement (when relevant).
- Amount for Future Medical Treatment – Identify the total amount of the WC settlement that is designated for future medical benefits (separate from wage or indemnity benefits). If the settlement does not specify a total amount for future medical treatment, explain why it does not. Identify separately the appropriate future expenses that might otherwise be paid by
- Identify the calculation method used to determine the amount for future medical treatment, WC fee schedule or full actual charges. Identify if the amount is for the claimant's lifetime or for a specified time
- Medicare Set-Aside Amount – State the amount of the medical benefits that you propose to be placed in the WCMSA for future items/services that would otherwise be covered by Medicare. Include a payout schedule for each year if a structured settlement is applicable. Outline future non-Medicare-covered expenses not included in the WCMSA amount, e.g., fitness center
- Administrator – Designate the administrator responsible for control and documentation of proper expenditures from the WCMSA account. Include the address of the administrator if it is not the
- Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement Account – The arrangement may be funded with a lump-sum amount or a structured annual amount. Funds must be placed in an interest- bearing account. If an account is structured and funded by an annual annuity, identify the source of the annuity and include the annual payment amount, annual funding date, amount of the initial deposit (seed money), and number of
- Fees – One-time and recurrent administrative fees and expenses for administration of the WCMSA and attorney costs specifically associated with establishing the WCMSA cannot be charged to the WCMSA account. The payment of these costs must come from some other payment source that is completely separate from the WCMSA funds. You can use the account to pay for taxes on the interest income earned by the account, and for document copying and banking fees associated with the setup and maintenance of the
- Final WC Settlement Agreement – Approval of the WCMSA amount is not final until CMS receives an executed copy of the final settlement agreement that has been approved and signed by all parties. Submit a copy of the final settlement agreement using your original method of submission. If you originally mailed your proposal, send your settlement to:
Closeout Letter
‹‹Date›› ‹‹Submitter Name›› ‹‹Address›› ‹‹City, State, ZIP›› RE: Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement for: ‹‹Claimant›› ‹‹HICN›› ‹‹SSN›› ‹‹Date of Injury›› ‹‹CMS Case Control Number›› Dear Sir or Madam: We recently requested additional information from your office to determine the appropriate Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside amount for the above-named claimant. Since that time, ‹‹# of days›› have expired without our receiving a reply, or the reply we received did not include all the information we requested.We still need:
‹‹FREE TEXT›› Therefore, we are closing this case due to lack of sufficient information. If the claimant is already a Medicare beneficiary or once he or she becomes a Medicare beneficiary, Medicare may deny medical claims related to the beneficiary’s workers’ compensation claim.Note: The case will automatically reopen when the requested information is received.
Please include the CMS Case Control Number listed at the top of this letter in any correspondence. Submit your information via the Portal if your original submission was via the Portal. If you originally submitted outside of the Portal, submit your information to the following address: WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-8899 If your information is 10 pages or less, you may also fax it to (405) 869-3306. Note: This number is not for initial submissions, only for additional documentation under 10 pages. If you have any questions regarding our request for additional information, please contact the undersigned toll free at 833-295-3773. Sincerely, ‹‹RO Contact››Appendix 6. Sample Submission
The sample included in this section is not intended to specify a required form or format. Each state has unique forms for processing WC cases, and nothing in this sample is meant to interfere with each state’s forms or requirements. Note that the endnotes are for explanation only and are not meant to be part of a suggested submission. The sample submission is intended to be used only as a sample. The intent of the sample document is to aid submitters in organizing the information that is typically sent to CMS with a WCMSA proposal. Procedures relating to WCMSAs are published on the CMS web site. (Please see https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa on the CMS website.) Where any conflict is perceived between statements or information in this sample and official CMS published procedures, the latter controls. This sample is divided into numbered sections, corresponding to the electronic folders in which CMS scans and files documents for review. Use of these numbered sections by submitters enhances the scanning and review process and reduces errors.- For cases filed on compact disc, grouping and naming documents by using the numbered folders is preferred, as this will eliminate the need for section
- For cases submitted on paper, numbered section dividers on single sheets, rather than tabs, are
Appendix 5: 05 – Cover Letter
05 – Cover Letter January 21, 2009WCMSA Consultants, LLC 100 Helpful Lane, Suite 300
City, State 11111-2222 Phone: (410) 555-1111, Fax: (240) 555-0000 WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement- Box 138899
A. Claimant Information
- Gender: Female
- Date of Birth: 07/03/49
- Median Rated Age: 67
- Life Expectancy Used in Proposal: 17
- Consent attached (required): YES
B. Entitlement Information
- Is claimant is entitled to Medicare. No
- If above answer is NO, claimant believes he/she will be entitled to Medicare within 30 months of the expected settlement date because (answer YES to one of the following):
C. Injury Information
- Description of incident and injury: Claimant was tightening valves and felt her neck burning.
- All date(s) of injury being settled (list oldest first; show first and last dates of any cumulative traumas):
- ICD-9 diagnosis codes and descriptions for body parts that are settling (list all that apply, in order of priority):
- ICD-10 diagnosis codes and descriptions for body parts that are settling (list all that apply, in order of priority):
D. Contact Information:
- Submitter
- MSA Administrator
- Claimant: YES
- SSA Representative Payee: NO (if YES, include name, address, phone, and fax)
- Professional Administrator: NO (if YES, include name, address, phone, and fax)
- Claimant’s Attorney
- Employer
- Employer’s Attorney
- WC Carrier
- WC Carrier’s Attorney
E. Settlement Details:
- Total settlement amount: $260,000
- Total proposed Medicare set-aside amount: $95,891
- Portion of set-aside for medical items and services: $17,739
- Calculated using (check one)
- Portion of set-aside for prescription drugs: $78,152
- Set-aside is paid out as
- Lump sum: NO
- Annuity: YES
- State of Jurisdiction/Venue: American Samoa
Appendix 5: 10 – Consent to Release Note
10 – Consent to Release Note CONSENT TO RELEASE The Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-579) prohibits the government from revealing information from personal files without the express written permission of the person involved. Disclosure of personal records to an attorney or other representative who is acting on behalf of another person is prohibited, unless the individual to whom the record pertains has consented. I, Jane Doe , hereby authorize the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), its agents and/or contractors to disclose, discuss, and/or release, orally or in writing, information related to my worker's compensation injury and/or settlement to the individual(s) and/or firm(s) listed below. This consent is for my current workers' compensation claim and is on an ongoing basis. An additional consent to release will not be necessary unless or until I revoke this authorization (which must be in writing). PLEASE CHECK: X Claimant’s attorney (name and/or firm): Legal Eagle, Esquire X Employer's attorney (name and/or firm): Conrad Courageous, Esquire X Workers' compensation carrier (name and/or firm): Got U Covered X Other (name and/or firm): WCMSA Consultants Claimant’s Signature: Signature Date Signed: 10/18/08 Date(s) of Injury: 01/31/01, 04/13/02 Social Security Number or Health Insurance Claim Number: 123-45-6789Appendix 5: 15 – Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy
15 – Rated Age Information or Life Expectancy WCMSA Consultants, LLC 100 Helpful Lane, Suite 300 City, State 11111-2222 Phone: (410) 555-1111, Fax: (240) 555-0000Rated Age Statement
Claimant: Jane Doe SSN: 123-45-6789 All rated ages obtained on the claimant have been included. WCMSA Consultants, LLC SubmitterVULCAN INSURANCE COMPANY
100 Live Long and Prosper Lane CITY, STATE 22222-4444 Phone: (302) 555-1111, Fax: (302) 555-0000 An underwriting assessment for JANE DOE has been completed. Gender: Female Date of Birth: July 3, 1949 Actual Age: 59 Rated Age: 67 Issue Date: November 15, 2008 Name: Jane DoeSUNNY SETTLEMENT BROKER, INC.
200 Sunnyside Lane CITY, STATE 33333-5555 Phone: (804) 555-1111, Fax: (804) 555-0000 File No.: 00WS458231 Gender: Female DOB: July 3, 1949 Actual Age: 59 Ratings obtained from:A. The Good Life Ins Co, Charles N. Reilly, Phone (410) 555-0000, Fax (410) 555-9999
Gender: Female Date of Birth: July 3, 1949 Actual Age: 59 Rated Age: 62 Issue Date: November 11, 2008B. Live Better Ins Co, Inc., Doris Day, Phone (410) 333-0000, Fax (410) 555-8888
Gender: Female Date of Birth: July 3, 1949 Actual Age: 59 Rated Age: 65 Issue Date: November 12, 2008C. Fortunate Life Ins Co, LLC, Ruff Day, Phone (410) 777-0000, Fax (410) 555-0000
Gender: Female Date of Birth: July 3, 1949 Actual Age: 59 Rated Age: 72 Issue Date: November 12, 2008D. Lively Life Ins. Co., Faye Ray, Phone (410) 444-0000, Fax (410) 555-1111
Gender: Female Date of Birth: July 3, 1949 Actual Age: 59 Rated Age: 77 Issue Date: November 13, 2008Appendix 5: 20 – Life Care/Future Treatment Plan
20 – Life Care/Future Treatment PlanGREATLIFEPLAN, LLC
100 Easylife Way City, State, 22222 Phone: (888) 555-1111 Fax: (888) 555-0000 Life Care Plan Future Medical Care – Medicare Covered Items and Services and Prescription Drugs Client: Jane Doe Date prepared: 10/18/2008 Prepared by: Rita Reviewer, RN, CCM DOB: July 3, 1949 DOI: 01/31/01, 04/13/02 Diagnoses: 721.1 Cervical spondylosis without myelopathy 723.1 Cervicalgia 723.4 Brachial neuritis or radiculitis NOS Median rate age: 67 Life expectancy: 17 yearsCalculation of WCMSA for medical items and services related to work injury:
Medical Item or Service, Number, Every x years, # of years, Price per service, Lifetime Total Pain management, 4, every 1 year, for 17 years, price $80.56 per service, $5,478.08 Lab work Rx, 1, every 1 year, for 17 years, price $36.67 per service, $623.39 Orthopedist, 1, every 1 year, for 17 years, price $80.56 per service, $1,369.52 X-ray Cervical, 5, every 17 years, for 17 years, price, $111.31 per service, $556.55 MRI/CT Cervical, 3, every 17 yrs, for 17 years, price $1,386.19 per service, $4,158.57 Trigger point injection, 6, every 17 yrs, for 17 yrs, $80.00 per service, $480.00 Physiotherapy, 18, every 17 years, for 17 years, price $81.83 per service, $1,472.94 Epidural injections, 3, every 17 yrs, for 17 yrs, price $1,200.00 per service, $3,600.00 Lifetime total of all medical items and services: $17,739.05Calculation of WCMSA for prescription drugs related to work injury:
Drug, National Drug Code, Dosage, Frequency, Length, Price per unit, Lifetime Total Zolpidem, 64679-0715-01, 10mg, 30/mo, for 17 yrs price $3.65 per unit, $22,338.00 Tizanidine, 00172-5736-70, 4mg, 90/mo, for 17 yrs price $1.39 per unit, $25,520.40 Hydrocodone/apap, 00591-0540-05, 10/500mg, 90/mo, for 17 yrs, price $0.18 per, $3,304.80 Gabitril, 63459-0404-01, 4mg, 30/mo, for 17 yrs, price $4.41 per unit, $26,989.20Lifetime total of all prescription drugs: $78,152.40
Appendix 5: 25 – Settlement Agreement or Proposed or Court Order
25 – Settlement Agreement or Proposed or Court Order BEFORE THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION COMMISSION AMERICAN SAMOA Commission File: 000000 Jane Doe (Hereinafter called “Employee”) v. Cool Toys Manufacturing (Hereinafter called “Employer”) Got U Covered (Hereinafter called “Carrier/TPA”) ***AGREEMENT OF FINAL SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE*** THIS AGREEMENT OF FINAL SETTLEMENT AND RELEASE was made and entered into on the day of by and between Employee, Employer, and Insurer. I The Employee, Jane Doe, for consideration of the sum of $260,000, paid by or on behalf of the above captioned Employer/Carrier/TPA, shall release Employer/Carrier/TPA, from its obligation or liability to pay all benefits of whatever kind or classification available under the State Workers’ Compensation Law on account of the above- captioned manufacturing accident and any other known or unknown (discussed below) work-related injury that the Claimant may have sustained while employed by the Employer and/or their successors, assigns, interests, officers, directors, employees, agents, shareholders or any other person or entity who may be responsible or liable for actions of the Employer. II Claimant represents and affirms that all accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases known to have occurred or to have been sustained while employed by the Employer have been revealed but in any event, this Settlement Agreement and Release releases the Employer/Carrier/TPA from all Workers’ Compensation liability and as such, Claimant bears the risk of arguably related conditions not yet manifested. It is the intention of the parties to resolve all claims actual or potential for any and all accidents and/or injuries, arising out of and in the course and scope of employment, in exchange for the monetary consideration outlined herein. III The Claimant specifically acknowledges that on finality of this Settlement Agreement and Release, rights to all future medical care and treatment related or arguably related to the workers’ compensation claim, whether remedial or palliative in nature, are forever and fully relinquished whether or not the Claimant’s condition has been brought to a state of maximum medical improvement and regardless of whether the Claimant’s condition(s) improves or seriously deteriorates for any reason whatsoever. On finality of this Settlement Agreement and Release, except as specifically provided and limited below, the Employer/Carrier/TPA shall not be responsible for either the provision or payment of any medical benefits. Any future medical care treatment or expense that may arise in the future, regardless of the cause thereof, will be the responsibility of the Claimant. Claimant understands only authorized medical providers will be paid for authorized services rendered prior to the finality of this Settlement Agreement and Release. Any medical bills from authorized providers for authorized services rendered to the finality of this Settlement Agreement and Release shall be submitted for payment by the Employer/Carrier/TPA. All medical bills from unauthorized providers are the responsibility of the Claimant, not the Employer/Carrier/TPA. Medical bills from authorized providers for services rendered after the date of finality become the responsibility of the Claimant. IV The Medicare Set Aside funds in this case are to be self-administered by the claimant. Claimant has been provided directives issued by CMS regarding her rights and responsibilities in this regard. Claimant understands that until she becomes entitled to Medicare, the MSA funds must not be used to pay the claimant’s expenses. Claimant understands that the MSA funds must be placed in an interest bearing account, and this account must be separate from the individual’s personal savings and checking accounts. The funds in this account may only be used for payment of medical services related to the work injury that would normally be paid by Medicare. It is not the intention of the Workers’ Compensation Carrier to shift responsibility of future medical benefits to the Federal government. The sum of $95,891 for future Medicare-covered expenses is intended directly for payment of these expenses. Upon proof that Medicare-covered expenses exceed $95,891, those expenses will be forwarded to Medicare for payment of covered expenses with proper documentation. It is the responsibility of the claimant/beneficiary to submit bills related to the work- related injury or illness totaling the amount of $95,891 before Medicare will make payment on any covered expenses related to the work injury or illness. This allocation is based on the workers’ compensation fee schedule. The injured worker should be advised that all payments to providers are to be adjusted accordingly, and any monies paid in excess of the fee schedule will not count toward the allocation. V Claimant and her family agree not to discuss the existence of this settlement or any of the terms to any persons in the employment of Cool Toys Manufacturing, Inc. or any former employees of Cool Toys manufacturing. The Claimant specifically agrees to keep the existence of and the terms of this settlement strictly confidential. VI The Employee accepts the following settlement as full and final compensation from her former employer: Total WC Settlement Amount: $260,000 broken down as follows: Cash to claimant for indemnity $115,000 Cash for initial deposit non-Medicare medical needs $809 Annuity payout for non-Medicare medical needs $1,600 ($100/yr. for life (est. 16 years) starting 08/04/10) Cash for initial deposit Medicare set-aside $12,340 Annuity payout for Medicare set-aside $83,551 ($5,221.94/yr. for life (est. 16 years) starting 08/04/10) Attorney fee $46,700 $260,000 In testimony whereof, the parties have hereunto set their hands and affixed their seals the day and year first above herein. Employee: Signature Consented to by: Signature Legal Eagle, Esq. Attorney for Employee State Bar No. 5678 And by: Signature Conrad Courageous, Esq. Attorney for Employer/Carrier/TPA Attest: Signature NOTARY PUBLIC, American Samoa My Commission Expires: March 10, 2010Appendix 5: 30 – WCMSA Administration Agreement
30 – WCMSA Administration AgreementADMINISTERING YOUR STRUCTURED WORKERS’ COMPENSATION MEDICARE SET-ASIDE ARRANGEMNT (WCMSA)
You have chosen to personally administer the WCMSA account established as part of a Workers’ Compensation (WC) settlement, judgment, award, or other payment. It is important that you understand the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) policies regarding WCMSA accounts. By law (Section 1862(b)(2) of the Social Security Act), Medicare is not permitted to pay for medical items or services, including prescription drug expenses, related to the workers’ compensation claim until the approved WCMSA amount is appropriately exhausted (“properly spent”) on related medical care that is covered and otherwise reimbursable by Medicare (“Medicare covered”). Where a workers’ compensation settlement, judgment, award, or other payment is less than the approved WCMSA amount, Medicare is not permitted to pay for related medical care until the whole settlement, judgment, award, or other payment is properly spent on related medical care. The WCMSA funds must be placed in an interest-bearing account. Funds in the account may not be used for any purpose other than payment of future medical care that is Medicare covered and is related to the workers’ compensation claim, or for certain allowable expenses. For details on using the account, see the WCMSA Reference Guide and the Self- Administration Toolkit at https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa on the CMS website. Funds in a WCMSA account may not be used to purchase a Medicare supplemental insurance policy or a Medigap policy, or to pay for the premiums for such policies. When a WCMSA is funded as a structured settlement (settlement monies paid out in yearly installments over a number of years), any WCMSA funds that are not used in a given year must remain in the account to pay for related medical care during later years. If available WCMSA funds for a particular year (the current year’s full structured payment plus any prior year’s remaining funds plus interest) have been properly spent, Medicare will pay for covered items and services that are related to the workers’ compensation claim for the remainder of that year until the scheduled date for the next deposit into the WCMSA account. Bills should be paid in the order they are received to help the Benefits Coordination & Recovery Contractor (BCRC) confirm that the funds have been properly spent for that year. Medicare will pay for items and services covered by Medicare that are unrelated to the workers’ compensation claim according to Medicare’s payment rules. Basic instructions for establishing and administering a WCMSA account are listed below; more thorough instructions can be found in the Self-Administration Toolkit mentioned above (https://go.cms.gov/wcmsa). If you have any further questions regarding these requirements, please contact the Medicare Regional Office (RO) assigned to you. You can find a list of ROs at https://cms.gov/regionaloffices/ on the CMS web site; scroll to the Downloads section near the bottom of the page. For questions about annual attestations, contact the BCRC: WCMSA Proposal/Final Settlement P.O. Box 138899 Oklahoma City, OK 73113-889Establishing and Using Your Medicare Set-Aside Account
- WCMSA funds must be placed in an interest-bearing account, separate from your personal savings or checking
- WCMSA funds may only be used to pay for medical items and services and prescription drug expenses related to your workers’ compensation claim that would normally be paid by Medicare, or for certain allowable
- If you have a question regarding Medicare’s coverage of a specific item, service, or prescription drug, please call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit CMS’ website at https://www.medicare.gov/ where you can search for the item, service, or drug to see if it’s
Record Keeping
- You may use the WCMSA account to pay for the following costs that are directly related to the account:
- Document copying charges
- Mailing fees or postage
- Any banking fees related to the account
- Income tax on interest income from the account
- As administrator of the account, you will be responsible for keeping accurate records of payments made from the account. These records may be requested by the BCRC as proof of appropriate payments from the WCMSA
- Annually, you must sign and submit a copy of the attached attestation letter, which states that all payments from the WCMSA account were made for Medicare-covered medical and prescription drug expenses related to the workers’ compensation claim, or for allowable
- An annual attestation must be submitted to the BCRC at the address listed on the first page of these instructions no later than 30 days after the end of each reporting year, which starts with the date the account is established and ends on that date in the following year.
- Funds remaining in the account at the end of a reporting year must remain in the account for the next year, along with any accrued
- If your WCMSA funds are completely spent but you expect another annual deposit, send the attestation to inform Medicare that the account is temporarily exhausted. Medicare will pay for workers’ compensation claim-related medical expenses until the next annual
- The annual attestation should continue through depletion of the WCMSA
DO NOT SEND YOUR ANNUAL ATTESTATION DIRECTLY TO CMS. Please send
your annual attestation to the BCRC. Claimant: Jane Doe SSN: 123-45-6789 DOI: 01/31/01, 04/13/02 Employer: Cool Toys Manufacturing, Inc. Claimant: Signature Date: 11/01/08 I, Legal Eagle, counsel for Jane Doe, have reviewed the above agreement with the Claimant and have explained it in detail. I believe that Ms. Doe fully understands the complete contents of the document and the duties she is undertaking to administer her WCMSA. Counsel Signature Date: 11/01/08Appendix 5: 35 – Medical Records
35 – Medical RecordsAMERICAN SAMOA BOARD OF WORKER’S COMPENSATION
- EMPLOYER’S FIRST REPORT OF INJURY OR OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE
B. FOR USE BY CARRIER/TPA/SELF-INSURER
Average Weekly Wage: $700.00 Weekly Benefit: $ Date of disability: Date of First payment: Compensation Paid: $ Penalty paid: $ Previous Medical Only: Yes ( ), No ( ) BENEFITS ARE PAYABLE FROM FOR: ( ) Total/temporary total disability ( ) Temporary partial disability ( ) Permanent partial disability of % to for weeks UNTIL WHEN THE EMPLOYEE ACTUALLY RETURNED TO WORK ALL OTHER SUSPENSION REQUIRE THE FILING OF FORM WC2 WITH THE BOARD OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AND THE EMPLOYEE By (Carrier/TPA/Self insurer: Type or Print Name of Person Filing Form or Sign): Johnny Q. Adjuster Date: 02/03/01 Phone: Willfully making a false statement for the purpose of obtaining or denying benefits is a crime subject to penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. FORM WC-1 (REV. DATE 7/2002) EMPLOYER’S FIRST REPORT of INJURY or OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE PATIENT: Doe, Jane PT DOB: 07/03/1949American Samoa Regional Medical Center 123 South Main Street
Pago, Pago, American Samoa 54321 DICTATED: 07/26/2002 11:31 A ADMITTED: 07/26/2002 TRANSCRIBED: 07/26/2002 14:51 P DISCHARGED: mq/856954 Jack G. Skellington, M.D. 010006879846546/2A 211202 58-62-48 OPERATIVE NOTE: Jack G. Skellington DATE OF OPERATION: 07/26/2002 PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS: C5, 6 cervical disk herniation POSTOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS: Same SURGEON: Jack G. Skellington ASSISTANT: Kathleen Wratchet, R.N., F.A. OPERATION:- C5, 6 cervical discectomy with anterior intrabody fusion (Allograft)2. Codman slim lock anterior cervical plate stabilization
Subjective:
OrthoQuest Office Visit The patient returns today for a six-month re-evaluation and medication refill. She continues to have daily and continuous pain; at worst 8/10 and at best 4/10. The pain is severe several times a week and continues to limit her yard work, exercise, hobbies, and sleep. The pain is sharp, aching, and tingling. She has also recently been hospitalized for a myocardial infarction and is on medication. She has fully recovered from her cerebral aneurysm.Objective:
On examination she is pleasant and cooperative but is obviously restricted in her cervical range of motion. Sensation is diminished in the left hand at digits four and five. Grip strength and wrist extension are pain limited. Cervical range of motion is guarded with 10° flexion extension and bilateral rotation.Impression:
- C5-6 fusion
- Left C7 radiculopathy
Recommendations:
I will recommend continuing with her present medication. She has maintained her functional level with medication which allows her to continue light household chores and social activities. She displays no aberrant behavior. She continues to have significant impairment and disability. She will follow-up in six months for evaluation.John Henry “Doc” Holliday M.D. Board certified PMR
Board certified Pain Medicine Name: Jane Doe Birthdate: 07/03/49 SSN: 123-45-6789 Date: 06/02/08Subjective:
OrthoQuest Office Visit The patient returns today for re-evaluation after six months. She has left arm pain that is unchanged. She has good and bad days. She is unable to tolerate strenuous activity. Medications are still effective and are lasting. She denies any adverse side effects. She is still recovering from her brain aneurysm.Objective:
She still has mild facial droop. The cervical region is extremely guarded. She does have tenderness in the paraspinals. Her left arm strength is 2/5 and guarded secondary to pain. Impression: C5-6 fusion Left C7 radiculitis Left upper extremity paresis Right brain aneurysm status post craniotomyRecommendations:
Her condition remained stable and unchanged. She is managing on medication without adverse side effects or aberrant behavior. She is still totally disabled from her previous occupation. She will follow-up in six months for medications.John Henry “Doc” Holliday M.D. Board certified PMR
Board certified Pain Medicine Name: Jane Doe Birthdate: 07/03/49 SSN: 123-45-6789 Date: 12/04/07HISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS:
OrthoQuest Office Visit The patient returns today after her last visit in June with continued left arm pain and weakness. She has been using more Hydrocodone due to more frequent bad days. In the interim, she has had surgery for a ruptured cranial aneurysm on the right. She was in the hospital in October and is still having some arm paresis and facial droop. She is not driving at this time and is still under the surgeon’s care. Her weakness in the upper extremity is back to her baseline. MUSCULOSKELETAL EXAM: She has left facial droop. She has a well healed right craniotomy scar. She is ambulating normally. Cervical flexion is still extremely limited in all directions with marked guarding and tenderness. The cervical area appears unchanged. SKIN: Skin is without lesions. NEUROLOGIC EXAM: She still has diminished sensation in digits four and five. Her grip strength is still 5-, but she has more generalized weakness at 4 out of 5 in the more proximal arm and shoulder. Leg strength is 5 out of 5. Spurling Maneuver is still positive on the left.IMPRESSION:
C5-6 fusion Left C7 radiculitis, unchanged New left upper extremity paresis RECOMMENDATIONS: At this time, she is somewhat still concerned about an apparent discrepancy on her disability statement, being sedentary versus total disability. I believe she is still totally disabled from her previous occupation.John Henry “Doc” Holliday M.D. Board certified PMR
Board certified Pain Medicine Name: Jane Doe Birthdate: 07/03/49 SSN: 123-45-6789 Date: 06/05/07OrthoQuest Office Visit
CHIEF COMPLAINT: Left arm pain, left neck pain HISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS: The patient returns today for her six-month follow up evaluation. We increased her medication dosage to the 10-milligram tablet, which has helped. The pain is now at worst an eight on a scale of ten and at best a three. She has good and bad days. She has had flares the last several days, decreased with rest. It is aggravated by over activity. She still gets numbness in the hand. She gets pins and needles and drops things. Her arm feels heavy on the left. REVIEW OF SYSTEMS: She had a knee arthroscopy of the left knee for a torn cartilage. SOCIAL HISTORY: She has applied for, and received, Social Security Disability Insurance.PHYSICAL EXAM:
Height: 5’5” Weight: 178 pounds GENERAL APPEARANCE: Pleasant, cooperative and in no acute distress. CARDIOVASCULAR: Pulse is two out of four and symmetric in the upper and lower extremities. There is no edema. LYMPHATIC: There is no adenopathy. MUSCULOSKELETAL EXAM: Today she is somewhat antalgic on the left with a single-point cane. Cervical flexion is limited, as is extension and rotation bilaterally. She is very guarded. There is diffuse tenderness predominantly at the left paraspinals. SKIN: Skin is without lesions. NEUROLOGIC EXAM: There is hypoesthesia at digits four through five on the left. Grip strength is 5- on the left. Spurlings Maneuver is positive on the left.IMPRESSION:
- C5-6 fusion
- Left C7 radiculitis with both mild sensory and motor loss
RECOMMENDATIONS:
At this time, she is stable and managed on her medication. I will see her back in six months for re-evaluation and will continue her current prescriptions of Zanaflex 4 milligrams tid, Lortab 10 milligrams tid, Gabatril 4 milligrams at night and Ambien 10 milligrams at night. We will give her five refills.John Henry “Doc” Holliday M.D. Board certified PMR
Board certified Pain Medicine Name: Jane Doe Birthdate: 07/03/49 SSN: 123-45-6789 Date: 12/05/06CHIEF COMPLAINT:
Left arm pain and neck painHISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS:
OrthoQuest Office Visit The patient returns today after her last visit in June. She did well with the last injection. The pain is still daily. The Lortab is not helping as much and the pain is at best a three or four and frequently a seven on a scale of ten. She gets constant pins and needles into the fingers, weakness in the arm, and spasms occasionally at night or during the day with activity. SOCIAL HISTORY: She is on disability. She has difficulty with driving, especially because she cannot turn her head. She avoids any lifting. She has a reacher.PHYSICAL EXAM:
Height: 5’5” Weight: 178 pounds GENERAL APPEARANCE: Pleasant, cooperative and in no acute distress. CARDIOVASCULAR: Pulse is two out of four and symmetric in the upper and lower extremities. There is no edema. LYMPHATIC: There is no adenopathy. MUSCULOSKELETAL EXAM: Cervical flexion and extension are very limited at 10° and guarded. Right and left lateral flexion is 10° and guarded. There is tenderness in the paraspinals and particularly in the left C-5 through C-7 region. SKIN: Skin is without lesions. NEUROLOGIC EXAM: There is hypoesthesia at digits four through five on the left. Grip strength is 3- and somewhat pain limited. Coordination is normal. Spurlings Maneuver is positive for radicular symptoms in the left.IMPRESSION:
- C5-6 fusion
- Left C7 radiculopathy with primarily sensory and some motor loss
RECOMMENDATIONS:
At this time we discusses a spinal cord stimulator as an option for more prolonged pain relief and less dependence on medication. I will, however, give her an opportunity to increase the Lortab 10-milligram strength for now and follow up for prn trigger point injections or epidural steroid injections. We will see her back in six months or sooner if she wants to discuss spinal cord stimulator trial.John Henry “Doc” Holliday M.D. Board certified PMR
Board certified Pain Medicine Name: Jane Doe Birthdate: 07/03/49 SSN: 123-45-6789 Date: 06/06/06CHIEF COMPLAINT:
Left arm pain and neck painHISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS:
OrthoQuest Office Visit The pain has been worse over the past month, more constant and more severe at an eight out of a scale of ten. She is not getting any relief. It is fairly constant. Her left arm is number. She is getting worsening pins and needles into the upper extremity. She denies any change in strength. SOCIAL HISTORY: She is avoiding most activities at this time, especially since the pain has been worse this month.PHYSICAL EXAM:
Height: 5’5” Weight: 178 pounds GENERAL APPEARANCE: Pleasant, cooperative and in no acute distress. She displays no abnormal pain behavior. However, she is extremely guarded with any rotation of the neck. She holds her head with a slight list to the left. CARDIOVASCULAR: Pulse is two out of four and symmetric in the upper and lower extremities. There is no edema. LYMPHATIC: There is no adenopathy. MUSCULOSKELETAL EXAM: Gait and station are normal. Cervical flexion is 10° and extension is 15°. Right rotation is 20° and left rotation is zero. Trigger points are noted particularly in the left C-5 though C-7 traps and paraspinals. SKIN: Skin is without lesions. NEUROLOGIC EXAM: There is hypoesthesia at digits four and five. Grip strength is 3+ and pain limited. Reflexes are two out of four and symmetric. Spurlings Maneuver is positive.IMPRESSION:
C5-6 fusion Left C7 radiculopathy with aggravationRECOMMENDATIONS:
At this time we discussed an epidural steroid injection or possibly a spinal cord stimulator trial since the epidurals haven’t helped that much in the past. She opted for trying trigger point injections since that was more expedient. We will refill Lortab, Zanaflex, Neurontin and Ambien today and see her back in six months for refills and re-evaluation. Trigger point injections were performed at the left C-6/7 paraspinals, trapezius and levator scapula, after sterile preparation of the skin with Betadine. A solution of 6 cc of 0.25 percent Bupivacaine and 40 milligrams Depo-medrol was divided between three trigger point injections. There were no complications and she had moderate relief.John Henry “Doc” Holliday M.D. Board certified PMR
Board certified Pain Medicine Appendix 5: 40 – Payment History40 – Payment History
Affinity Service Group, Inc.
Claims Payment Request for: Doe, Jane Claim Number: ABC-987654321 Date Prepared: 1/15/09 Payment Category: All| Check | Type | Check Date | Check Payee | Service Date | Check Amount |
| 259781 | Exp | 01/10/09 | Copy Cat, Inc. | n/a | $33.60 |
| 165487 | Exp | 01/08/09 | C.C & C Law | n/a | $893.00 |
| 548632 | Med | 01/06/09 | Orthoquest | 12/02/08-12/02/08 | $72.00 |
| 165468 | Rx | 12/13/08 | Prime Rx | n/a | $4,500.00 |
| 876532 | Med | 11/24/08 | Orthoquest | 06/02/08-06/02/08 | $80.00 |
| 465789 | Ind | 05/26/08 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 445646 | Ind | 04/23/08 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 879769 | Ind | 03/27/08 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 123244 | Rx | 03/15/08 | Prime Rx | n/a | $3750.00 |
| 876921 | Ind | 02/23/08 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 346487 | Med | 02/18/08 | Orthoquest | 12/04/07-12/04/07 | $72.00 |
| 378988 | Ind | 01/28/08 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 421321 | Rx | 01/08/08 | Prime Rx | n/a | $3750.00 |
| 898997 | Ind | 12/23/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 979888 | Ind | 11/24/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 048777 | Exp | 11/13/07 | Magnum P.I. | n/a | $278.00 |
| 797654 | Ind | 10/30/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 668376 | Ind | 09/28/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 735153 | Med | 09/20/07 | Orthoquest | 06/05/07-06/05/07 | $80.00 |
| 123458 | Ind | 08/28/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 673677 | Ind | 07/23/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 879575 | Ind | 06/24/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 487311 | Rx | 06/09/07 | Prime Rx | n/a | $3750.00 |
| 365768 | Ind | 05/26/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 778792 | Ind | 04/29/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 131727 | Med | 04/18/07 | Orthoquest | 12/05/06-12/05/06 | $72.00 |
| 114586 | Ind | 03/27/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 548763 | Ind | 02/24/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| Check | Type | Check Date | Check Payee | Service Date | Check Amount |
| 965321 | Ind | 01/30/07 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 132569 | Ind | 12/23/06 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 154351 | Med | 12/11/06 | Orthoquest | 06/06/06-06/06/06 | $150.00 |
| 456489 | Med | 12/08/06 | Orthoquest | 06/06/06-06/06/06 | $150.00 |
| 548673 | Ind | 11/29/06 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 464593 | Ind | 10/29/06 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 356468 | Ind | 09/27/06 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
| 245487 | Ind | 10/29/06 | Doe, Jane | n/a | $445.00 |
PRESCRIPTIONS R US PHARMACY SERVICES
Patient: Jane Doe Date Prepared: 12/31/08| Drug Prescription | Strength | Qty | DS | Service Date | Amount |
| Zolpidem | 10mg | 30 | 30 | 12/4/2008 | $110.00 |
| Tizanidine | 4mg | 180 | 30 | 12/4/2008 | $250.00 |
| Hydrocodone/APAP | 10/325mg | 120 | 30 | 12/4/2008 | $50.00 |
| Gabitril | 4mg | 30 | 30 | 12/4/2008 | $130.00 |
| Zolpidem | 10mg | 30 | 30 | 11/7/2008 | $110.00 |
| Tizanidine | 4mg | 180 | 30 | 11/7/2008 | $250.00 |
| Hydrocodone/APAP | 10/325mg | 120 | 30 | 11/7/2008 | $50.00 |
| Gabitril | 4mg | 30 | 30 | 11/7/2008 | $125.00 |
| Zolpidem | 10mg | 30 | 30 | 10/2/2008 | $110.00 |
| Tizanidine | 4mg | 180 | 30 | 10/2/2008 | $242.00 |
| Hydrocodone/APAP | 10/325mg | 120 | 30 | 10/2/2008 | $50.00 |
| Gabitril | 4mg | 30 | 30 | 10/2/2008 | $125.00 |
| Zolpidem | 10mg | 30 | 30 | 09/11/2008 | $110.00 |
| Tizanidine | 4mg | 180 | 30 | 09/11/2008 | $242.00 |
| Hydrocodone/APAP | 10/325mg | 120 | 30 | 09/11/2008 | $50.00 |
| Gabitril | 4mg | 30 | 30 | 09/11/2008 | $125.00 |
| Zolpidem | 10mg | 30 | 30 | 08/15/2008 | $103.00 |
| Tizanidine | 4mg | 180 | 30 | 08/15/2008 | $242.00 |
| Hydrocodone/APAP | 10/325mg | 120 | 30 | 08/15/2008 | $50.00 |
| Gabitril | 4mg | 30 | 30 | 08/15/2008 | $125.00 |
Appendix 7. List of Previous Version Changes
Version 2.6 of this Guide includes the following changes:- Further clarified expectations of Hearings on the Merits (Section 1.4)
- Updated defined requirements for Spinal Cord Stimulator pricing (Section 4.5)
- Corrected BCRC contact numbers from previous versions
- Expanded state-specific statute guidelines (Section 4.5)
- Clarified total settlement calculations guidelines (Section 5.3)
- Added ICD-10 examples to Sample Cover Letter
- Clarified jurisdictional verification (Section 9.4.4, Step 5)
- Clarified change of submitter requirements (Sections 9.0, 10.2, and 4)
- Updated Re-review policy (Section 0)
- Added required resubmission requirements (Section 1)
- Updated administration recommendations (Section 1)
- Added MyMedicare.gov link (Section 17.6)
- Updated Off Label Medication requirements (Section 9.4.6.2)
- Updates were made to reflect Non-Group Health Plan (NGHP) Ongoing Responsibility for Medicals (ORM) recovery changes. See Section 2.
- Guidelines for use of ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes were updated. See Sections 9.4.4 and 10.4.2.
- Updates were added to accommodate Non-Group Health Plan (NGHP) Ongoing Responsibility for Medicals (ORM) recovery activities. See Section 2.
- Updated language to correspond with recent changes to
- Corrected reference from 42 CFR 411.46 to Section 1862(b)(2) of the Social Security Act.
- Clarified reference to costs related to the workers’ compensation claim, rather than the compensable
- Clarified reference to future medical items and services as “Medicare covered and otherwise ”
- Clarified that CMS approves the WCMSA amount, not the WCMSA, upon submission of a
- Correspondingly, clarified language referring to submission of a proposed WCMSA amount, rather than a WCMSA
- Restated the comparison of fee-schedule vs. full-and-actual-costs pricing as the basis of pricing the proposed amount, rather than the basis of payment from an approved WCMSA
- Clarified attestation vs. accounting
- Clarified procedural results when Medicare is not provided with information in response to a development
- Removed the word “form” from references to documents that are not
- Added language to address schedule change for hydrocodone compounds from schedule III to schedule II. See Section 9.4.6.2.
- Changed deadline for responding to development requests for submission through the WCMSA Portal to 20 from the previous 10 days. See Sections 9.4.1 and 5.
- Added Section 4.1.4, on Hearing on the Merits of the Case
- Clarified initial submission requirements for medical records and payment records
- Miscellaneous modifications:
- Removed reference to Drug Tables for physician-dispensed drugs
- Combined sections on Drug Tapering and Drug Weaning
- Added Wisconsin to the list of states with no WC fee schedules
- Added Appendix 6, List of Previous Version Changes
- Updated references to the Benefits Coordination & Review Contractor (BCRC) and contact information from the CMS WCMSA Operating Rules. Added Section 1.1.
- Updated web
- Section 1.0: Guide source materials updated to include information provided by the Workers Compensation Review Contractor (WCRC), and information from the CMS WCMSA Operating Rules. Added Section 1.
- Clarified title of Section 4.2 and wording of situation in which a WCMSA is not necessary because Medicare’s interests are manifestly protected
- Added sections (and subsections of these):
- 4.1.1—Most Frequent Reasons for Development Requests
- 4.2—WCRC Team Background and Resources Used
- 4.3—WCRC Review Considerations
- 4.4—Medical Review
- 4.5—Medical Review Guidelines
- 4.6—Pharmacy
- Added medical records guidelines link in Section 7.
- Expanded the acronyms section (Appendix 2); added a glossary definition for DME, and expanded the MSP definition (Appendix 3).
- Section 10.1, 2.e.: corrected jurisdiction
- Section 10.8: added to submission list: pay history.
- Removed Operating Rules link from Appendix
- Inserted additional material from the memos per review by
- Inserted material from the Operating Rules, primarily in section 9.4, WCRC Review.
