The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is transitioning Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) fee coupons and certificates to an electronic format. Clinical researchers who perform laboratory testing are required to switch to email notifications before March 1, 2026, to continue receiving fee coupons and certificates. After that date, CLIA paper fee coupons and certificates will no longer be available.
What do rheumatologists need to know?
The CMS has an array of educational materials to support clinical researchers in their transition to a electronic system, including a partner toolkit, fact sheet and promotional poster.
ACR members who perform lab tests are encouraged to update their email contact information with the CMS as soon as possible to avoid missing crucial fee notices and certification documents and to ensure continued compliance with CLIA regulations.
How can rheumatologists switch?
There are two ways to switch to electronic notifications or update your email address.
- Fill out the CMS-116 application form. To switch to electronic notifications, check the box, “Receive notifications including electronic certificates via email.” The application must be completed in its entirety.
- Or, provide written notification by email. The written notice must be signed by the lab director or the lab’s designee and must contain:
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- CLIA number;
- Name of laboratory director;
- Name of laboratory owner; and
- Change requested.
The ACR is steadfastly committed to ensuring that rheumatologists are kept up-to-date on changes to CLIA regulations. For further information about the ACR’s regulatory advocacy efforts, email the ACR’s advocacy team at [email protected]. ACR/ARP members can also schedule time to meet directly with the ACR’s advocacy team via the office hours webform.
