HHS will hold an open door call this month to discuss its expanded Settlement Conference Facilitation program. The call will be held May 22.
 
This program is an alternative dispute resolution process that allows certain providers a chance to settle their appeals.

All Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B providers and suppliers who have appeals pending at the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) or Medicare Appeals Council levels "are encouraged to read the updated SCF expansion materials on our website," an April 30 email from HHS states. 
 
HHS also has posted frequently asked questions about the program.