Remark code N337 indicates a claim issue due to a missing, incomplete, or invalid date for a secondary diagnosis.
Remark code N337 is an indication that the claim has been processed with an issue related to the secondary diagnosis date; specifically, the date is either missing, incomplete, or invalid.
Common causes of code N337 are inaccurate data entry, omission of the secondary diagnosis date during the initial claim submission process, failure to update the patient's medical records with all relevant diagnosis dates, and discrepancies between the diagnosis dates provided and those recorded in the patient's medical history documentation. Additionally, this code may be triggered by the use of outdated or incorrect coding systems that do not align with current medical billing standards, leading to the rejection of the secondary diagnosis date as invalid.
Ways to mitigate code N337 include ensuring that all patient records are thoroughly reviewed and updated before submission. Implement a double-check system where a second set of eyes reviews the coding for accuracy, focusing on the completeness of the secondary diagnosis date. Utilize electronic health record (EHR) systems that have built-in alerts for missing or incomplete information, specifically targeting secondary diagnosis dates. Regularly train staff on the importance of comprehensive documentation and the impact of missing or invalid data on revenue cycle management. Establish a pre-claim submission process that includes a checklist emphasizing the verification of secondary diagnosis dates. Engage in continuous quality improvement practices to identify patterns or common errors related to secondary diagnosis dates and address them proactively.
The steps to address code N337 involve a multi-faceted approach to ensure the completeness and accuracy of secondary diagnosis date information. Initially, review the patient's medical record to verify if the secondary diagnosis date was documented during the patient encounter. If the date is found within the medical documentation but was not included in the claim, update the claim with the correct secondary diagnosis date and resubmit it.
In cases where the secondary diagnosis date is not documented, reach out to the healthcare provider who was responsible for the patient's care to obtain the missing information. It may require querying the provider for specifics regarding the secondary diagnosis to ensure accurate and complete documentation. Once the secondary diagnosis date is confirmed, update the patient's medical record and the claim, then proceed to resubmit the claim.
If the secondary diagnosis was incorrectly coded, causing the date to be flagged as missing, incomplete, or invalid, conduct a thorough review of the patient's medical record to identify the correct secondary diagnosis and its corresponding date. After identifying the correct information, correct the coding on the claim, ensuring that the secondary diagnosis and its date are accurately represented, and resubmit the claim.
Throughout this process, it's crucial to maintain clear and consistent communication with the billing and coding team to ensure that all updates are accurately reflected in the patient's record and on the claim. Additionally, consider implementing a routine audit process to identify and address similar issues proactively, reducing the likelihood of receiving code N337 in future claims.