Stamp Signature Block Release Of Medical Information For Free

CMS has now stated unambiguously that all providers and suppliers must stop using physician signature stamps. In an MLN Matters article (SE0829) released July 29, CMS states, "Stamped signatures are not acceptable on any medical record."

With only a few exceptions, Medicare requires that the providing and/or ordering practitioner authenticate the services in the medical record. The method used shall be a handwritten or electronic signature.

Signature Logs The physician (provider) should sign his/her legal signature (full name, including credential). Under Actual Chart Signature, the provider should indicate all possible ways that he/she would sign the medical record (initials, first initial/last name, etc.).

The signature for each entry must be legible and should include the practitioner's first and last name. For clarification purposes, we recommend you include your applicable credentials (e.g., P.A., D.O. or M.D.).

Specifically, ?Pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Division 5, Title 22, Chapter 6, Home Health Agencies, Section 74731 (a) (1), State law does not prohibit the use of physician's rubber stamp signatures in home health agencies.? If you want a copy of this transmittal, call our regulatory line at (866) 4CAHSAH ...

In order to be considered valid for Medicare medical review purposes, an attestation statement must be signed and dated by the author of the medical record entry and must contain sufficient information to identify the beneficiary.

Are stamped signatures acceptable? No, stamped signatures are not acceptable. Medicare requires services provided/ordered/certified be authenticated by the persons responsible for the care of the beneficiary. Only handwritten or electronic signatures are acceptable.