guide to: PECOS enrollment MRK-1163-1-2009 page 1 / 7 What is PECOS? PECOS stands for the Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System. It is the online Medicare enrollment system that allows providers to submit and maintain their enrollment. Providers are to submit an enrollment application based on providers relationship with Medicare. The three ‘relationship’ types are: • Enrollment where they bill Medicare for their services (855I) • Enrollment where they reassign their benefits to their employing company who in turn pays them for services rendered (855R) • Ordering and Referring enrollment only (855O). You will only need to enroll for Ordering and Referring privileges. Please note that only certain provider types can enroll. Why does it matter? The Affordable Care Act, Section 6405, requires providers ordering tests for Medicare beneficiaries to be enrolled in the Medicare program for diagnostic testing. Per the FAQs sheet for Ordering and Referring Providers: Those who enroll as ordering/referring providers only may not seek or receive reimbursement from Medicare for services they furnish. They do not have billing privileges for submitting claims to Medicare directly for services provided to Medicare beneficiaries. How does one enroll in PECOS? You can register for ordering and referring status in two ways: Via a paper application or through the PECOS website by visiting https://pecos.cms.hhs.gov. The online version takes about 15 minutes and the documentation is uploaded into the system for processing. Once submitted and if done correctly, the application should process in about 2-3 weeks. You will need to have a scanned copy of the following on hand ready to upload at the end of the application: • Driver’s license • Copy of all applicable licenses such as your professional license, DEA, CDS, etc. There is no fee to register for ordering and referring status. If you need assistance with your application, email [email protected] or call (800) 635-6901 x554