What is Attestation

Attestation Definition

Attestation is the "Moment of Truth" in provider data management. For Payer Ops, a signed attestation is a legal requirement for the credentialing file; it shifts the responsibility for data accuracy onto the provider. Under the No Surprises Act, "90-Day Attestation" has become a critical compliance workflow. Providers must log in and "attest" that their directory information (address, phone, taking new patients) is still correct. For C-level Executives, the attestation rate is a key metric for "Directory Health." If providers aren't attesting, the plan’s data is effectively "unverified," making it a liability during a CMS audit. Strategically, organizations are using "Digital Attestation" tools to make this 90-day process as easy as a "one-click" confirmation for the doctor.

FAQs

Does an attestation have to be hand-signed?

No. Electronic signatures are now the industry standard and are fully accepted by NCQA, URAC, and CMS for credentialing and directory verification.

What is the legal risk of a "False Attestation"?

If a provider knowingly attests to false information, it is grounds for immediate termination from the network and can be reported to the state medical board as professional misconduct.

Why is the 90-day cycle so important?

Federal law (No Surprises Act) mandates that plans reach out to providers every 90 days; the "Attestation" is the proof that the plan fulfilled this duty.