Noridian Healthcare Solutions reminds all suppliers to use the current version of the Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), Form CMS-R-131 when appropriate. Proper use ensures compliance and helps transfer financial liability to the beneficiary when Medicare is expected to deny coverage. If an ABN was issued during the allowed transition period, it remains valid for the duration specified, provided there have been no changes to the treatment, condition, or coverage situation.

To be clear, the implementation of a new ABN form does not require the beneficiary to sign a new ABN. An ABN remains effective after valid delivery so long as there has been no change in:

• Care from what is described on the original ABN; and/or
• The beneficiary's health status which would require a change in the subsequent treatment for the non-covered condition; and/or
• The Medicare coverage guidelines for the items or services in question (i.e., updates or changes to the policy of an item or service).

Note: If any of the above changes during the course of treatment, a new ABN must be issued

For more information, visit the Noridian Medicare website for a variety of resources, including the Noridian Educational Experience (NEE), Webinars on Demand Recordings, and the Schedule of Events.