CMS Pub. 100-16, ch. mc86c17d, § 20.2.1

When an individual files for Medicare based upon ESRD, entitlement can begin:

• The first day of the third month after the month dialysis begins (i.e., the first day

of the fourth month of dialysis);

• The first day of the month dialysis began if the individual trains for self-dialysis;

• The month an individual is admitted to a hospital for a kidney transplant or for

health care services needed before a transplant if the transplant takes place in the

same month or within the 2 following months;

• Up to 12 months prior to the month of filing (if dialysis began more than 12

months before); or

• Prospectively.

The Medicare entitlement date is usually the month an individual is hospitalized for a

transplant or 3 months after the month the individual begins dialysis (i.e., the first day of

the fourth month of dialysis). For example, if an individual begins dialysis in January,

Medicare entitlement is effective April 1.

There are individuals who are approved to perform self-dialysis. If an individual is

approved for self-dialysis, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will waive the 3-month waiting period to begin Medicare entitlement. In cases of self-dialysis, Medicare

entitlement is effective the month dialysis begins, rather than the customary 3 months

from the month the individual begins dialysis.