---
kind: "section"
citation: "42 C.F.R. § 421.3"
title: "42"
number: "421.3"
heading: "Definitions."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/42/421.3"
---

# §421.3. Definitions.


As used in this part—

Intermediary means an entity that has a contract with CMS (under statutory provisions in effect prior to October 1, 2005) to determine and make Medicare payments for Part A or Part B benefits payable on a cost basis (or under the prospective payment system for hospitals) and to perform other related functions. For purposes of applying the performance criteria in [§ 421.120](/cfr/42/421.120.md) and the performance standards in [§ 421.122](/cfr/42/421.122.md) and any adverse action resulting from that application, the term “intermediary” also means a Blue Cross plan that has entered into a subcontract approved by CMS with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association to perform intermediary functions.


## Notes

### Amendments

[71 FR 68228, Nov. 24, 2006]

### Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 1302 and 1395hh.

### Source

Source: 45 FR 42179, June 23, 1980, unless otherwise noted.

### Amendments

[71 FR 68228, Nov. 24, 2006]