Denial code 222 means the provider has exceeded the agreed limit for hours/days/units. Check the 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment for more details.
Denial code 222 is used when a healthcare provider has exceeded the maximum number of hours, days, or units that they are contracted to provide within a specific period. This denial code is not specific to a particular patient and is typically used for billing and reimbursement purposes. To understand the specific details of this denial, it is recommended to refer to the 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment (loop 2110 Service Payment Information REF) in the billing documentation, if it is present.
Common causes of code 222 are:
- Provider exceeded the contracted maximum number of hours/days/units for the specific period.
- Incorrect billing or coding of services, resulting in exceeding the contracted limit.
- Lack of proper documentation or supporting evidence for the services provided.
- Failure to obtain prior authorization for services that require it.
- Inadequate communication between the provider and the payer regarding the contracted limits.
- Errors in the submission of claims, such as duplicate billing or incorrect dates of service.
- Changes in the payer's policies or coverage limitations that were not properly communicated to the provider.
- Inaccurate or outdated information in the provider's system regarding the contracted limits.
- Failure to follow the payer's guidelines or requirements for billing and coding.
- Discrepancies between the provider's records and the payer's records regarding the contracted limits.
Ways to mitigate code 222 include:
- Review and update provider contracts: Ensure that provider contracts clearly define the maximum number of hours, days, or units that can be billed within a specific period. Regularly review and update these contracts to align with the services provided and any changes in regulations or payer requirements.
- Monitor utilization and track limits: Implement a robust tracking system to monitor the utilization of services provided by each provider. This system should alert you when the contracted maximum number of hours, days, or units is approaching or has been exceeded. Regularly review these reports to identify any potential issues and take proactive measures to address them.
- Prioritize pre-authorization and referrals: Before providing services that may exceed the contracted limits, ensure that pre-authorization or referrals are obtained from the payer. This step helps to validate the medical necessity and ensures that the services provided will be reimbursed appropriately.
- Educate providers on contract terms: Conduct regular training sessions with providers to educate them about the terms and conditions outlined in their contracts. Make sure they understand the importance of adhering to the contracted limits and the potential consequences of exceeding them.
- Implement real-time claims editing: Utilize a robust claims editing system that can identify potential issues related to exceeding contracted limits in real-time. This system should flag any claims that may result in code 222 denials, allowing for immediate correction or intervention before submission.
- Establish effective communication channels with payers: Maintain open lines of communication with payers to clarify any ambiguities or discrepancies related to contracted limits. Proactively engage with payers to resolve any issues and ensure that the contracted limits are accurately reflected in their systems.
- Regularly review and update coding guidelines: Stay updated with the latest coding guidelines and ensure that your coding practices align with the payer's requirements. Regularly review and update your coding guidelines to minimize the risk of code 222 denials.
- Conduct internal audits: Perform regular internal audits to identify any potential issues related to code 222 denials. These audits can help identify patterns or trends that may require additional attention or process improvements.
By implementing these strategies, healthcare providers can effectively mitigate code 222 denials and optimize their revenue cycle management processes.
The steps to address code 222 are as follows:
- Review the contract agreement: Examine the contract between your healthcare organization and the payer to determine the maximum number of hours, days, or units allowed for the specified period. This information should be clearly outlined in the contract.
- Verify the billed amount: Double-check the number of hours, days, or units that were billed for the specific service. Ensure that the billed amount aligns with the contracted maximum allowed by the payer.
- Identify any errors or discrepancies: Look for any potential errors or discrepancies in the billed amount. This could include incorrect documentation, coding errors, or any other issues that may have led to the code 222 denial.
- Communicate with the payer: Reach out to the payer to discuss the denial and provide any necessary documentation or clarification. Explain the services provided and the reasons why you believe the billed amount is accurate and within the contracted maximum.
- Negotiate with the payer: If the denial is not resolved through communication, consider negotiating with the payer to reach a resolution. This may involve providing additional documentation, appealing the denial, or discussing alternative payment arrangements.
- Monitor and track denials: Keep a record of all denials, including code 222, and track the progress of each denial. This will help identify any patterns or recurring issues that need to be addressed to prevent future denials.
- Implement process improvements: Analyze the root causes of denials, including code 222, and identify areas for improvement in your revenue cycle management processes. This could involve enhancing documentation practices, improving coding accuracy, or strengthening contract management procedures.
By following these steps, healthcare providers can effectively address code 222 denials and work towards optimizing their revenue cycle management processes.