Information for Medicare Providers and Provider Applicants

The Civil Rights Obligations of a Medicare Provider

When health care providers accept Federal financial assistance in the form of Medicare Part A payments, they must comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975.  They must not deny benefits or services to any qualified persons on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age.  Health Care Providers seeking initial certification or recertification must complete the Office for Civil Rights’ “Civil Rights Information Request for Medicare Certification” form and sign the HHS-690 Assurance of Compliance form as part of their Medicare Provider Application. 

Who is a Medicare Provider?

Medicare Providers are health care providers that participate in the Medicare program, including, but not limited to:

• Hospitals
• Skilled Nursing Homes
• Hospices
• Home Health Agencies
• Rural Health Clinics
• Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinics
• Physical Therapy Clinics
• Senior Citizen Centers
• Assisted Living Facilities

Who is a Medicare Provider Applicant?

Medicare Applicants are health care providers that are seeking initial Medicare certification or reapplying for Medicare certification due to a change in ownership.

Also See:     

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