SNF PEPPER Annual Reports to be Distributed Soon

The Program for Evaluating Payment Patterns Electronic Reports (PEPPER) reports for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) were first distributed in 2013, and allow providers to evaluate their billing patterns as compared to national, regional, and state averages. Facilities that have “abnormal” billing patterns, or those that fall outside the averages, can be susceptible to increased scrutiny from auditors. All facilities should have internal compliance practices that seek to ensure the accurate completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS), as well as submission of accurate bills to Medicare.

To access these reports, facilities must have a QualityNet user account. Information about user accounts can be accessed here.

Click here for educational resources on SNF PEPPER to assist in understanding the report structure and use.

For additional questions, there is a Frequently Asked Questions document, or providers may contact the PEPPER Help Desk.

LeadingAge NY ProCare consultants are available to review your individualized report, and can perform an onsite evaluation of MDS accuracy and billing practices to address any vulnerabilities noted in the PEPPER report.

Contact: Michelle Synakowski, msynakowski@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8850.