Beginning July 1, 2011, CMS will begin using predictive modeling technology to identify and prevent payment of fraudulent Medicare claims on a nationwide basis. Under this program, a contractor will use algorithms and an analytical process to examine Medicare claims on a real-time basis by beneficiary, provider, service origin or other patterns, assign “risk scores,” and issue alerts to CMS before claims are paid. This information will enable CMS to prioritize claims for additional review and assess the need for investigative or other enforcement actions.