Documentation Requests and Submissions for Wage Index and Occupational Mix Surveys

The timeframe for annual wage index reviews mandated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is very short. Each autumn, before our reviews begin, Palmetto GBA will request of providers specific information that our auditors require to complete their work in an efficient and timely manner.

Providers should expect to receive a full documentation request around late July or early August each year for the upcoming fall reviews. These requests are all-encompassing, but providers should note that if the support being requested has already been submitted with the as-filed cost report, or has already been submitted during a previous wage index review (i.e., prior year contracts that are still effective), then a simple response from the provider stating such will suffice. There is no need to resubmit duplicate documentation year after year. 

There are several options for submitting the Wage Index or Occupational Mix documentation:

• The Palmetto GBA eServices Portal is the preferred method for submitting supporting documentation. The portal submissions are typically received by the wage index teams within 24 hours of submission. Providers should retain the Document Control Number (DCN) that they are provided with as this number might be necessary later if submission issues arise. 
  • For details on how to access and register for the eServices portal, review our article on How to Submit Audit Documentation in eServices
  • The audit department does not maintain the eServices portal. For assistance with submitting documentation, providers are referred to the Help tab of the eServices homepage, or you may also contact eServices.Support@palmettogba.com. 
• Supporting documentation may also be submitted via email. Ensure your provider number and fiscal year end information are included in the email correspondence. 
  • Jurisdiction J: JJWAGEINDEX@palmettogba.com
  • Jurisdiction M: COSTREPORT.WAGEINDEX@palmettogba.com

• Supporting documentation may be submitted in electronic format on a CD or flash drive via U.S. Mail or courier service

Jurisdiction J

Jurisdiction M