Civil Rights Clearance for Medicare Provider Certification

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has legal authority under Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require health care providers to meet certain legal requirements in order to participate in the Medicare Part A program. These requirements include the civil rights nondiscrimination statutes and regulations enforced by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to ensure that eligible persons have equal access to quality healthcare regardless of their race, color, national origin, disability, or age. OCR examines applications to certify that applicants seeking Medicare provider status provide assurances that they are operating and will continue operating in accordance with applicable civil rights laws. If an applicant does not receive OCR’s certification, CMS will not certify the applicant as a Medicare Provider.

Information for Medicare Providers and Medicare Provider Applicants:

• What are the Civil Rights Obligations of a Medicare Provider?
• Who is a Medicare Provider?
• Who is a Medicare Provider Applicant?

Information to help Medicare Providers and Medicare Provider Applicants:

• Forms to be Completed by the Medicare Provider Applicant
• Technical Assistance to Medicare Provider Applicants
• Regulations and Guidance
• Links to HHS Information and Programs
• Educational Materials and Resources