Data Quality for Puerto Rico Dual Eligibles
Published on Sep 21, 2026 by Rebecca Vick
It came to my attention that the MBSF indicates an unbelievably low dual eligibility rate for Puerto Rico.
Completeness of Provider ID Variables in CMS TAF Files
The Provider ID and TAF APR
Provider IDs are state-reported variables, meaning that states can include their own provider numbers when submitting records to T-MSIS. In the TAF data, these numbers are delineated by variables with a specific Provider ID suffix. These identifiers can serve as an alternative form of linkage to the TAF APR, which contains Medicaid provider characteristics.
CMS Part C & D Utilization Data: Encounters with Anomalies
Published on Sep 14, 2026 by Rebecca Vick
While CMS data systems systems perform validity checks, the final output still depends on the quality of the data from plans.
On Policy Timing and Data Requests
Published on Aug 31, 2026 by Samantha Saykao
Changes in coverage and claim submission requirements can have significant impact on claims research data.
MBSF: Base Race Code Consistency Over Time (2010 vs 2019)
Can a beneficiary's race change in the MBSF: Base?
The Master Beneficiary Summary File: Base file (MBSF: Base), a research identifiable file offered by CMS, contains two annual race variables: the Beneficiary Race Code and the Research Triangle Institute (RTI) Race Code. There are studies that look at the accuracy of these race variables(1,2), but there is little information about whether the information changes within the data itself.