Remark code N642 is an adjustment for billing individual tests rather than as a panel, affecting reimbursement.
Remark code N642 is an indication that the payment adjustment was made because the tests were billed individually rather than as part of a panel.
Common causes of code N642 are billing individual tests separately when they should be billed collectively as part of a panel, misunderstanding the billing guidelines for specific tests that are part of a panel, or incorrect coding due to a lack of awareness of the composite test codes that should be used for billing purposes.
Ways to mitigate code N642 include ensuring that tests are billed correctly as a panel when applicable, rather than as individual tests. This can be achieved by thoroughly reviewing the coding guidelines for laboratory panels to understand which tests can be bundled together. Implementing a robust coding review process before claims submission can help identify and correct instances where tests should be billed as a panel. Additionally, training billing staff on the specific requirements for panel billing versus individual test billing can reduce the occurrence of this issue. Utilizing billing software that automatically flags potential panel tests based on the codes entered can also aid in preventing this adjustment code from being applied.
The steps to address code N642 involve a review and adjustment of the billing process for laboratory tests. Initially, it's essential to identify the tests that were billed individually but are also part of a recognized panel. Once identified, consolidate these individual tests into the appropriate panel code for future billing. For the claims already submitted, prepare and submit corrected claims with the panel code instead of individual test codes. It may also be beneficial to conduct a training session for the billing team to ensure they are aware of the correct procedure for billing tests as part of a panel to prevent recurrence of this issue. Additionally, implementing a billing software solution that automatically flags individual tests that could be part of a panel might help streamline the process and reduce errors.