Medi-Cal Update
Several physicians report receipt of a notice from the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) regarding the decommissioning of their point of service (POS) device and request for its immediate return. This is another demonstration of DHCS’ desire to move claims processing, eligibility and the majority of interactions to be electronic-based.
The Medi-Cal POS device is supplied to physician practices to verify recipient eligibility and clear share of cost liability. Per the notice, identified physicians have 30 days to return the device to DHCS from the date of the letter. Failure to return the device will result in the physician being charged $700, deducted from future reimbursements.
The California Medical Association has confirmed with DHCS that a date has yet to be determined when those fees will be collected if a practice fails to return the POS device as requested. Providers who are in need of a return shipping label or who have questions should contact DHCS at (800) 541-5555.