The Program for Evaluating Payment Patterns Electronic Reports (PEPPER) is on its way back. These reports, distributed annually by CMS, provide valuable data to help home health agencies and hospices monitor potential areas of improper Medicare payments. Many agencies have relied on PEPPERs as a benchmarking tool and as part of their compliance and quality improvement programs.

In January 2024, CMS abruptly halted the distribution of PEPPERs and took down the website, citing the need to improve the quality and accessibility of the reports. This pause created uncertainty for providers who depend on the data to evaluate risk and prepare for audits.

The PEPPER website has now been restored and includes a Distribution Schedule. However, the schedule remains marked “under construction,” and CMS has not yet released specific dates for when PEPPERs will again be available to home health and hospice providers. CMS previously informed the Alliance that agencies could expect the reports to return in Fall 2025

The Home Care Alliance will continue to check the distribution schedule regularly and provide updates to members as soon as more information is available. In the meantime, providers can visit the PEPPER website (currently under construction).