Unsolicited / voluntary refunds
Medicare contractors receive unsolicited / voluntary refunds (i.e., monies received not related to an open account receivable). Part A contractors generally receive unsolicited / voluntary refunds in the form of an adjustment bill but may receive some unsolicited / voluntary refunds as checks. Part B contractors generally receive checks. Substantial funds are returned to the Medicare trust fund each year through such unsolicited / voluntary refunds.
CMS reminds providers that:
The acceptance of a voluntary refund as repayment for the claims specified in no way affects or limits the rights of the federal government, or any of its agencies or agents, to pursue any appropriate criminal, civil, or administrative remedies arising from or relating to these or any other claims.
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