TPL Talks – Third Party Liability

MDHHS periodically releases TPL Talks regarding various issues that pertain to all providers. The release below deals with closing cases and managed care plans. It also provides contact information for TPL staff to assist your facility with these types of issues.

TPL Talks: Additional thoughts about Closing Case letters:

We’ve had a lot of interest in this and more than a few questions. Let’s see if we can clear up some confusion.

Does this mean we can’t ask for a Closing Case or “final” letter?

No. We very much want to provide you with all the information you need to settle your cases. We are trying to avoid the unnecessary time/expense of repeated duplication. We’re attempting to set the “default” from always needing a fresh Closing Case letter to “one and done” whenever possible.

Does this apply to all case types?

Yes, it does; however we’re finding that most of our repeated requests for Closing Case letters come from firms representing workers’ compensation cases. We know that the magistrates are sticklers for fresh letters, and while we very much appreciate the diligence, we’ve become inundated with the number of duplicate requests we’re receiving. And once again, for emphasis—we are happy to provide the letter, but are attempting to reduce the need for duplication.

How will we be sure that the managed care plans have not changed?

We provide your clients’ managed care plans as a courtesy and helpful starting place. If you believe your client may have changed plans, you should discuss this with them and contact the plan first. As we review our Closing Case letters, we know that this information change is actually pretty rare and may not justify the extra effort it is requiring by all of us. However, if you’ve got a very confused client or serious doubt, please note that on your request and we’ll do what we can to get you the correct information.

In short, we are trying to make this process easier. We recognize that it is a significant change, and we’re ready and willing to address issues if/when they come up, and we’ll continue to ensure that the state never holds your settlements and redemptions up.

TPL contact information:

Dan Voss, Section Manager; M-F 7:30 am-4 pm; 517-335-7506

Karla Stratton, Unit Manager; M-Th 7 am-5 pm, F 7-11 am; 517-241-6947

James Bearup. M-F 9 am-6 pm; 517-335-8564 

Kathreen Francis, T-F 6 am-4:30 pm; 517-335-8958 

Taylor Seekman, M-F 6 am-2:30 pm; 517-241-4070 

Doug Sheldon, M-Th 6 am-4:30 pm; 517-335-0824 

Chris Steel, M-F 8 am-4:30 pm; 517-335-8340 

Vontresse Thomas, M-Th 6 am-3:30 pm, F 6-10 am; 517-335-8555 

Gabrielle VanNeste, M-Th 7 am-4:30 pm, F 7-11 am; 517-241-4069