Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) pertains to a person's right of access to federal agency records, except those protected from disclosure by a set of exemptions and special law enforcement exclusions. For detailed information on the FOIA and a general listing of releasable information, please visit the CMS Web site 
or the Department of Health and Human Service Web site.
Our Role
Cahaba has been granted the authority to release specific types of information to requestors. We must furnish the record in the format specified by the requestor, as long as the record is readily producible in the specified form or formatted with reasonable effort. The records may be in various formats, i.e. hardcopy, electronic, or handwritten. FOIA does not require us to create new records or documents. Only existing records are covered by FOIA.
FOIA does not grant us the authority to deny any type of FOIA request. In the event a requestor has asked for records not on the list for direct release, we will forward the records to the appropriate Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Regional Office for determination. In this case, you will receive a response letter from us notifying you of the action.
Charging of Fees
There may be search, and/or copy fees in association with reproducing FOIA records. If the estimated cost of fulfilling a FOIA request is $250 or more, Cahaba is required to collect the fee prior to completing the request. The requestor must be notified in writing of the total cost of the request. Once the check has been received for advance payment, the request will be fulfilled. If the requestor does not respond within 30 days from the date of the letter, the FOIA request is considered closed.
How to Make a FOIA Request
All FOIA requests must :
- Be submitted in written form
- Contain a reasonable description of the record needed
- Clearly indicate the name, address and telephone number of the requestor
- Be signed. Note: a faxed signature is acceptable, however an electronic e-mail signature is not recognized as valid.
A request for a Medicare cost report should include the facility name, Medicare provider number and the year-end of the cost report you are requesting (the request should also indicate whether you are requesting the "as-filed" cost report or the "settled" cost report, if available.)
Request Information
To request information, go to the Write Us page and select “Freedom of Information (FOIA) to access the mailing address.
Questions
If you have questions about the status of your FOIA request, go to the Provider Audit and Reimbursement Contact Information section of the “Telephone Us” page to locate the appropriate telephone number listed under “Freedom of Information Act Requests.”
Page last updated: July 24, 2009
