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New Patient Orientation Packet

WHAT IS IT?

Since 2000, all new ESRD patients have received packets containing orientation materials relative to their plan of care. The New ESRD Patient Orientation Packets (NEPOPs) are distributed through a collaborative effort among the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Networks, and the Network Coordinating Center (NCC). In 2008, the NCC distributed more than 106,000 NEPOPs.

Once an ESRD Medical Evidence Report Form (Form CMS-2728) is entered into the Network data system for a new patient, a NEPOP is mailed to the patient’s residence.

The NEPOP mailing includes the following resources:

• A Medicare beneficiary letter from the CMS administrator
• A letter from the patient's Network Executive Director
• "Medicare Coverage of Kidney Dialysis and Kidney Transplant Services" (CMS booklet)
• "Preparing for Emergencies: A Guide for People on Dialysis" (CMS booklet)
• "You Can Live" (CMS booklet)
• "People Like Us" (National Kidney Foundation [NKF] brochure)
• "Dialysis Facility Compare" (CMS Brochure)
• "Vascular Access Flyer" (Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative Flyer)

WHO RECEIVES IT?
All new ESRD patients receive the packet.  The ESRD New Patient Orientation Packet is mailed to the patient the month after the Network receives the CMS 2728 form. In 2009, a total of 106,000+ new patient orientation packets were distributed.

WHEN DO NEW PATIENTS RECEIVE THEIR PACKETS?
Packets are mailed to new patients the month after their CMS 2728 form is received in the Network office.

WHAT DO THE PACKETS LOOK LIKE?
Packets are sent to patients via bulk mail. The large manila envelope bears the words "Important Healthcare Information Enclosed" and uses "The Network Coordinating Center" in its return address.

WHY HAVEN'T I RECEIVED MY PACKET?
Packets cannot be distributed to patients until a completed CMS 2728 form is received by the Network. Incorrect forms will cause delays in patients receiving their packets. Errors in patient addresses, such as incorrect apartment numbers or zip codes, are common reasons for packets not being received. New Patient Orientation Packets are re-sent to patients whose original mailing packet is returned and for whom an updated address can be identified. Should you require an additional packet, please contact the Network Coordinating Center at (516) 209-5332.

IS THE PACKET AVAILABLE IN SPANISH?
To request the Spanish version of select booklets, please contact the NCC or your local ESRD Network.

Links:
CMS: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/

NEW PATIENT ORIENTATION PACKETS HISTORICAL DATA

New ESRD Orientation Packets Distributed 2001-2009

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This material was prepared by IPRO, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for New York State, under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The contents presented do not necessarily reflect CMS policy.