If a facility is accredited, what does that mean?

• A. Always in compliance with all Medicare requirements
• B. Accreditation is optional
• C. Accreditations guarantee reimbursement
• D. In compliance with all Medicare requirements at the time of the survey

Answer: (D)

Accreditation means the facility has been evaluated by a CMS-approved accrediting organization and found to be in compliance with Medicare requirements at the time of that survey. This status, often described as deemed status, is what CMS accepts as evidence of Medicare participation. It does not guarantee ongoing compliance between surveys, nor does it guarantee reimbursement—claims are still reviewed and paid according to CMS rules.