When are audits performed for the Medicare recovery auditor program?

The correct answer is related to the timing of audits conducted under the Medicare Recovery Auditor Program, which primarily focuses on postpayment audits. These audits are performed after claims have been paid to identify and recover overpayments that may have been made to healthcare providers. This process allows the Medicare program to ensure that claims were appropriately billed and that the services provided were necessary and correctly documented.

Conducting postpayment audits is vital for maintaining the integrity of the Medicare system, as it helps to deter fraudulent practices and ensures that taxpayers’ money is not wasted. By reviewing claims after payments are made, recovery auditors can analyze billing patterns and identify any discrepancies that suggest potential overpayments or erroneous billing.

Other options suggest different types or timings of reviews that do not align with the nature of the Recovery Auditor Program. For example, prepayment audits would refer to checks done before the payments are disbursed, which are not the focus of recovery auditors. Annual reviews may suggest a periodic assessment, while daily checks imply constant monitoring, neither of which specifically pertain to the Recovery Auditor's postpayment-focused activities. Thus, postpayment audits serve a crucial role in addressing overpayment issues and ensuring compliance with Medicare regulations.