CMS SOM App. X, Tag X-093

…A qualified social worker is an individual who meets licensing requirements in the State

in which he or she practices; and

(1) Completed a course of study with specialization in clinical practice and holds a

master’s degree from a graduate school of social work accredited by the Council on Social

Work Education; or

(2) Is working as a social worker in a transplant program as of effective date of this final

rule and has served for at least 2 years as a social worker, 1 year of which was in a

transplantation program, and has established a consultative relationship with a social

worker who is qualified under (d)(1) of this paragraph.

Guideline §§482.94(d)(cont’d) and (d)(1)-(2).

Non-MSW employees functioning as a transplant program social worker prior to the June 28,

2007, which is the effective date of the final rule, “Medicare Program; Hospital Conditions of

Participation: Requirements for Approval and Re-Approval of Transplant Centers To Perform

Organ Transplants” (72 FR 15198, Mar. 30, 2007), must have a consultative relationship with an

MSW who meets the requirements of §482.94(d)(1). The purpose of the consultative

relationship is for the MSW to advise, support and often guide a social worker in their position.

A consultative relationship generally would include:

• Meetings between the MSW and the non-MSW on a routine or re-occurring basis; and

• Evidence that the MSW is available and responsive for ad hoc consultation with the non-MSW employee.