The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced two changes to the Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) system that will make it easier for providers to successfully submit hire, termination and rehire information for employees. As of March 19, the following updates will go into effect:

1. Both hire and termination dates will be optional items in the system
2. The same employee ID will be allowed to be used more than once in a single PBJ submission XML file

For more on the latest changes, visit the PBJ website.  Scroll to the What’s New and Downloads sections for additional information on the latest updates.

Since the implementation of the system, AHCA, providers, and other organizations have advocated for fixes that create efficiencies in the collection of staffing data. AHCA is pleased with CMS’ actions and looks forward to continuing to find solutions that support providers in submitting their data.

AHCA also continues to seek feedback from providers on the challenges they face with the system.  If you have any questions or concerns, please email the PBJ team at staffdatacollection@ahca.org.