Final answer:
The Self-Referral Disclosure Protocol (SRDP) is a process for providers and suppliers to self-disclose violations of the physician self-referral statute. It allows for voluntary disclosure and potential resolution through a settlement agreement. Key features include the submission of a disclosure packet, cooperation with CMS, and repayment of overpayments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Self-Referral Disclosure Protocol (SRDP) is a process established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for providers and suppliers to self-disclose actual or potential violations of the physician self-referral statute. The physician self-referral statute, also known as the Stark Law (section 1877 of the Social Security Act), prohibits physicians from referring Medicare patients for certain designated health services to entities with which they have a financial relationship, unless an exception applies.
The SRDP allows providers and suppliers to voluntarily disclose these violations to CMS, which can result in a resolution of the matter through a settlement agreement. By self-disclosing violations, providers and suppliers can potentially avoid the imposition of certain penalties.
Some key features of the SRDP include the submission of a disclosure packet that includes detailed information about the violation, cooperation with CMS in the investigation process, and the establishment of a repayment amount for any overpayments associated with the violations.