Remark code N612 is an alert that the provider is not certified to treat injured workers in the specified area.
Remark code N612 indicates that the medical provider is not authorized or certified to provide treatment to injured workers within the specific jurisdiction.
Common causes of code N612 are:
1. The healthcare provider's certification has expired or lapsed, and they have not completed the necessary renewal process.
2. The provider is attempting to offer services outside of their licensed scope of practice or specialization as recognized by the jurisdiction.
3. There has been an administrative error, such as incorrect provider information submitted on the claim or failure to update the provider's certification status in the payer's system.
4. The provider has recently changed their practice location to a new jurisdiction and has not yet received authorization or certification in that area.
5. The claim was submitted for a type of treatment or service that the jurisdiction specifically requires additional certification or authorization for, which the provider does not have.
Ways to mitigate code N612 include ensuring that all medical providers in your practice are fully aware of the certification requirements specific to treating injured workers within your jurisdiction. Regularly verify and update the certifications of your healthcare professionals to comply with local regulations. Implement a system to check the authorization status of each provider before scheduling appointments for injured workers. Additionally, consider establishing partnerships with authorized providers to refer cases that fall outside your certification scope, ensuring continuity of care for the patient while adhering to jurisdictional mandates.
The steps to address code N612 involve several key actions to ensure compliance and facilitate the processing of claims for injured workers. Initially, it's crucial to verify the provider's certification status in the jurisdiction in question. If the provider is indeed certified but the code was applied in error, gather all relevant certification documentation and submit it to the payer along with a written explanation and request for code review and claim reevaluation.
If the provider is not certified, explore the possibility of referring the patient to an authorized provider within the network. This may involve coordinating with the patient to identify a suitable provider and ensuring a smooth transition of care to prevent any disruption in the patient's treatment plan.
Additionally, it's advisable to initiate the certification or authorization process for the provider if they plan to continue treating injured workers in that jurisdiction. This may involve contacting the jurisdiction's workers' compensation board or equivalent authority to understand the requirements and timelines for certification. Keep detailed records of all communications and submissions to the certifying authority to track progress and provide evidence of compliance efforts.
In parallel, communicate transparently with the patient about the situation, the steps being taken to address it, and how their care will be managed in the interim. This helps maintain trust and ensures the patient is informed about their treatment options.
Finally, review internal processes to prevent similar issues in the future. This could include implementing a system to regularly verify the certification status of providers for specific jurisdictions or enhancing training for staff involved in the billing and claims submission processes to recognize and address potential certification issues before claims are submitted.
Get paid in full by bringing clarity to your revenue cycle
Subscribe to the
Healthcare Clarified newsletter
Get the latest insights on RCM and healthcare policy in your inbox
