PUBLIC USE FILES (PUFs) DATA

INTRODUCTION

The PUFs Data chapter includes files that have been edited and stripped of all information that could be used to identify individuals. The files described in the PUFs Data chapter are organized into the following file groups:

• Cost Limits
• Cost Reports
• Enrollment
• Payment Rates - Institutional Providers
• Payment Rates Non-Institutional Providers
• Providers
• Utilities/Miscellaneous
• Utilization
• Medicaid

These files are the primary source of data for Federal agencies outside CMS(previously HCFA), government contractors, academic researchers, and commercial enterprises that are not permitted access to individual identification information. PUFs are offered for sale by OIS, EDG, Division of Information Distribution. Additional information regarding available PUFs, instructions for ordering PUFs, and an updated PUFs catalog can be obtained by calling the PUFs hotline 410-786-3691 or by faxing your request to 410-786-6418. The PUFs catalog is updated annually in January. The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) has posted most of the personal computer based data files and the PUFs catalog on the Internet at http://www.cms.hhs.gov. Only the most current Public Use Files (PUFs) are posted at this web site. Earlier data files are available for purchase by contacting the PUF staff at (410) 786-3691.

Introduction to PUFs | Cost Limits | Cost Reports | Enrollment | Payment Rates - Institutional Providers | Payment Rates Non-Institutional Providers | Providers | Utilities/Miscellaneous | Utilization | Medicaid