Authorities

15100 - Authorities (Rev.31, Issued: 07-21-17, Effective: 07-21-17, Implementation: 07-21-17) Section 1153 of the Social Security Act (the Act) generally provides authority for CMS to enter into contracts with QIOs for the performance of QIO functions described in section 1154. CMS may modify, renew, or discontinue all or part of one or more tasks for one or more states or territories in the QIO service area or any other part of the contract. Sections 1153(c)(2) and (4) of the Act provide for CMS to assess the quality and effectiveness of each QIO in carrying out the functions specified in its contract when evaluating QIO performance. Section 1153(h)(1) of the Act requires CMS to publish notices in the Federal Register whenever it makes significant policy and/or procedural changes that substantially affect performance of QIO contract obligations 30-days before such change is to take effect. Section 1153 (h)(2) of the Act requires the Secretary to publish in the Federal Register the general criteria and standards used for evaluating performance of QIO contract obligations, and provide an opportunity for public comment. Section 1153 (h)(3) of the Act requires CMS to regularly provide each QIO an assessment of its performance in relation to the performance of other QIOs.