Remark code N146 indicates a claim denial due to the absence of required screening documentation.
Remark code N146 indicates that the claim has been processed but is lacking a necessary screening document. This documentation is required to substantiate the services billed and to ensure they are covered by the payer. The healthcare provider must provide the missing screening document to resolve this issue and facilitate proper claim adjudication.
Common causes of code N146 are incomplete patient intake forms, failure to submit required clinical documentation such as lab results or imaging reports, and oversight in attaching preventive screening records like mammograms or colonoscopies during the claims submission process.
Ways to mitigate code N146 include implementing a robust document tracking system within your practice management software to ensure all required screening documents are accounted for prior to claim submission. Staff training on the importance of complete documentation and regular audits of patient files can help identify and rectify missing documents before they become an issue. Additionally, utilizing checklists for specific services that require screenings can help staff members verify that all necessary documents are collected and attached to the patient's record in a timely manner. Automation tools that flag incomplete patient records can also serve as a preventive measure against missing screening documents.
The steps to address code N146 involve first verifying if the screening document was indeed provided during the patient's visit. If the document is missing, reach out to the clinical staff to obtain the necessary screening documentation. Once acquired, ensure that the document meets the payer's requirements and resubmit the claim with the appropriate attachment. If the document was previously submitted, review the claim submission to confirm that the attachment was correctly linked and referenced, and then resubmit the claim with evidence that the screening document was included initially. It's also important to document the process in the patient's account to prevent future occurrences of this issue.
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