Effective March 17, 2020, all local Social Security offices will be closed for in-person services in an effort to protect older Americans, and people with medical conditions that would be adversely affected by the virus and their employees. The local offices will still provide critical services over the phone and online. Their National phone number is operational for automated services and can be reached at (800) 772-1213. A link to the announcement can be found here.
This announcement comes on the heels of unprecedented local and national business shutdowns in an attempt to “Flatten the Curve” of reported cases of COVID-19 Coronavirus and lessen the burden on the healthcare industry. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to monitor the effects of the virus and provides updates here. Social Security will issue an update when they plan to reopen their offices.
What does this mean for the Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) compliance industry?
When thinking about MSP compliance and how to utilize the Social Security offices, here are five key considerations:
While things remain uncertain across the country, the companies that forge a plan of action during this time will be best equipped as events unfold.
ExamWorks Clinical Solutions offers a full suite of services to assist parties in addressing conditional payments Medicare Set-Aside arrangements, and we consult with parties daily to assist with the development and review of Medicare-compliant settlement language. We will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updated guidance if and as required. If you need help with any aspect of Medicare Secondary Payer Compliance, please contact our Director of Conditional Payment Services, Lou Porrazzo, Esq.