Medicare Information    

Dr. Putnam does not participate with Medicare.  Officially, his status is  “opt-out.”   

Medicare beneficiaries and physicians are allowed to contract privately outside of the Medicare program.  The law permits physicians and beneficiaries to enter into private arrangements through a written contract under which the Beneficiary may agree to pay the Physician more than that which would be paid under the Medicare program.  

However, beneficiaries and physicians who take advantage of this provision are not permitted to submit claims for payment or to expect payment for those services from Medicare.  The Physician has certain other obligations, such as filing an affidavit with the appropriate Medicare carrier(s), a copy of which is attached to the Medicare contract.  

You have to sign a Medicare Provider Contract prior to your first appointment with Dr. Putnam.  This contract must have a “wet” signature (no digital signatures or faxed copies) and we must have it at our office at your visit.  In the contract, you are the “Beneficiary” and need to fill out all of the appropriate spaces, and then mail the contract to our office.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1) What does this all mean?  Dr. Putnam does not participate with Medicare.  You will be responsible for Dr. Putnam’s full fee at the time of service. 

2) Will Dr. Putnam submit claims to Medicare?  No, because Dr. Putnam has opted-out of Medicare, he is not allowed to submit claims to Medicare.

3) Can I submit claims to Medicare? No.  By agreeing to see Dr. Putnam, you are waiving your ability to submit the claim to Medicare.

4) Can I submit to my secondary insurance?  Yes.  You must do the submission, and there is no guarantee that they will reimburse you any money.  Dr. Putnam and his office will not be submitting any claims to secondary insurance