Hotline: June 2011

From the Hotline

Q. Once identity is verified for a SNAP applicant, is it considered a permanent verification?

A. Yes. Unless a change has occurred or you have reason to question the validity of the original
documentation, identity must not be re-verified. For more information on verifying identity, refer to
Operations Memo 2010-55.

Note: Identity is also considered a permanent verification in the TAFDC and EAEDC programs.

Q. There is a shortage of primary care physicians in our town, and my client told me he cannot find a
physician to complete his EAEDC Medical Report. How can I assist him?
 

A. Competent Medical Authorities (CMAs) are not restricted to primary care physicians. If your applicant
or client is unable to secure a timely appointment with a primary care doctor, remember that there are
additional professional designations that are acceptable.

For TAFDC and EAEDC, a CMA may also include osteopaths, nurse practitioners or psychologists
licensed by the Commonwealth, including physicians or psychiatrists from a Veterans Administration
Hospital or clinic or from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health. (For the limited purpose of
diagnosing pregnancy and pregnancy-related disabilities, a nurse-midwife who meets the education and
certification requirements mandated by state law and regulations is also acceptable.) For more
information on CMAs, refer to 106 CMR 701.600(H).

Q. My EAEDC client asked me for help finding a doctor. He is having trouble locating a CMA who will
accept MassHealth and complete his EAEDC Medical Report. Should I be assisting my client with
finding a doctor or other CMA?

A. Yes. If an applicant or client indicates that assistance is needed with locating or being referred to a
CMA, case managers should offer assistance. Refer to 106 CMR 702.315 for more information.

Q. How can I help my client locate health care facilities and CMAs that will accept MassHealth?

A. To identify MassHealth facilities and CMAs within your community, contact the MassHealth Member
Customer Service Center at 1-800-841-2900.

Also to find other CMAs within your community, follow this link Health Care Providers for a listing of
other doctors and available specialists.