Sec. 10.09.11.05. Application: Additional Requirements

A. Social Security Number.

(1) As a condition of eligibility, an applicant shall furnish to the Department or its designee a Social Security number for the applicant. If the applicant cannot furnish a Social Security number, the applicant shall apply for a number. Assistance may not be denied, delayed, or discontinued pending the issuance or verification of the number if the applicant complies with this subsection.

(2) Eligibility may not be established until the applicant:

(a) Furnishes a Social Security number; or

(b) Requests the assignment of the number through the Social Security Administration.

(3) Failure to provide the required Social Security number shall result in ineligibility for the applicant.

(4) If an applicant lacks the resources to meet the requirements of this regulation, the Department or its designee services shall assist the applicant in obtaining the necessary documents, and any costs incurred shall be paid for out of administrative funds.

(5) If the application indicates that a Social Security number was issued previously, the Department or its designee shall request validation of the number by the Social Security Administration.

(6) Individuals described under COMAR 10.09.24.05D(4)(b) who are applying for limited benefits to treat an emergency medical condition are not subject to the requirements in §A(1)-(4) of this regulation.

B. Third-Party Liability.

(1) A recipient shall notify the Department or its designee within 10 working days when medical treatment has been provided as a result of a motor vehicle accident or other occurrence in which a third party might be liable for the recipient's medical expenses.

(2) A recipient shall cooperate with the Department or its designee in completing a form designated by the Department to report all pertinent information and in collecting available health insurance benefits and other third-party payments.

(3) In accident situations, a recipient shall notify the Department or its designee of the:

(a) Time, date, and location of the accident;

(b) Name and address of the attorney;

(c) Names and addresses of all parties and witnesses to the accident; and

(d) Police report number if an investigation is made.

C. The Department or its designee shall:

(1) Maintain a written or electronic record including documentation of any required elements of eligibility; and

(2) Restrict disclosure of information concerning a recipient to purposes directly connected with the administration of the Medical Assistance Program, including:

(a) Establishing eligibility;

(b) Determining the extent of coverage under Medical Assistance;

(c) Providing services for recipients; and

(d) Conducting or assisting an investigation, prosecution, or civil or criminal proceeding related to the administration of the Medical Assistance Program.

D. An applicant or recipient shall give consent to verify information needed to establish eligibility to the Department or its designee, by submitting a written, telephonic or electronic application.