Freedom of Information (FOI)

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides access to non-privileged records and documents maintained by Federal agencies, and those acting on behalf of Federal agencies, such as Medicare contractors. WPS Medicare's Freedom of Information unit responds to requests for certain existing records and documents in our possession. Requests for information or clarification of guidelines, as opposed to requests for existing documents, do not fall within the scope of the FOIA and will be forwarded to the appropriate department for handling.

All FOIA requests must be in writing and be signed by the requester. The FOIA unit responds in writing, not by phone or fax. The FOIA authorizes WPS Medicare to collect fees for responding to FOIA requests.

Some examples of the documents most commonly requested by Medicare beneficiaries are as follows:

  • Duplicate Medicare Summary Notices for deceased beneficiaries
  • Drug coverage documentation
  • General Medicare coverage documentation

Keep in mind that some documents, such as Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) and National Coverage Determinations (NCDs), are now available on the Internet. Although they may be requested through the FOIA, requesters can avoid any applicable fees by obtaining published documents via the internet.

Submit your Part B FOI requests to:

WPS Medicare
Attn: Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
P.O. Box 8810
Marion, IL 62959

Page Last Updated: Friday, 28-Oct-2011 13:31:56 CDT