Traditional MedicareAdministrativeMedium impact
CMS Updates Forms for Hospitals to Provide to Medicare Members
BCBS Montana·Government Programs
Effective date
May 15, 2026
We identified it
Jun 18, 2026
Summary
CMS has updated two required forms that hospitals must provide to Medicare beneficiaries: the Important Message from Medicare (given to all inpatients) and the Detailed Notice of Discharge (provided only when appeals are requested). Hospitals must transition to the new versions by May 15, 2026.
Action Required
By May 15, 2026: Hospital billing and patient services teams must download and implement the updated Important Message from Medicare and Detailed Notice of Discharge forms from CMS website. Replace current forms in both English and Spanish versions. Ensure all Medicare inpatients receive the Important Message and have access to the Detailed Notice for discharge appeals.