Is a physician’s stamped signature acceptable?

Written and Reviewed by Reed Tinsley | October 27, 2014

No, stamped signatures are not acceptable. Medicare requires that services provided/ordered be authenticated by the author of the order or medical record entry. Only handwritten or electronic signatures are acceptable.

What specific verbiage is considered acceptable for electronic signatures?

The phrases listed below are acceptable for electronic signatures:

Accepted By” with provider’s name
“Electronically signed by” with provider’s name
“Verified by” with provider’s name
“Reviewed by” with provider’s name
“Signed by” with provider’s name
Signed: John Smith, M.D.” with provider’s name
This is an electronically verified report by John Smith, M.D.
Authenticated by John Smith, M.D
Authorized by: John Smith, M.D
Confirmed by with provider’s name
Electronically approved by with provider’s name

Please note Medicare would expect the phrase/signature to be dated.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.

Have questions? I’m here to help.

Categories
Accounting and Tax Services Litigation Support Managed Care Consulting Managed Care Contract Negotiations Medical Practice and Healthcare Entity Valuation Medical Practice Assessment Medical Practice Brokerage Medical Practice Embezzlement Consulting Medical Practice Management Medical Practice Merger Advice Medical Strategic Planning Newsletter Personal Financial Planning Oversight Physician Compensation Models Physician Compliance Physician Financial Management Services Retirement Uncategorized