What does the LEIE list, and how is it used by providers?

• A. The LEIE lists excluded individuals/entities; providers must screen against it before hiring or contracting to ensure eligibility.
• B. The LEIE is a list of licensed physicians.
• C. The LEIE is a list of hospital accreditation statuses.
• D. The LEIE is a patient privacy policy.

Answer: (A)

The LEIE identifies individuals and entities that are excluded from participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health care programs. Providers use this list to screen prospective hires and contract suppliers before bringing them on board, ensuring that everyone involved is eligible to participate and bill for services. If someone on the LEIE is hired or contracted, the provider faces serious consequences, including the risk of not being reimbursed for claims and potential liability under federal fraud and abuse laws. The list is maintained by the Office of Inspector General and is updated regularly, so ongoing screening—at least annually and whenever hiring or contracting occurs—is an essential compliance practice. This isn’t a list of licensed physicians, hospital accreditation statuses, or a patient privacy policy.