Denial code P26 is used when a payment is adjusted based on the Voluntary Provider network (VPN). It is specific to Property and Casualty claims and should be referred to in the 835 Class of Contract Code Identification Segment or the 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment, depending on the level of adjustment.
Denial code P26 is used when a payment is adjusted based on the Voluntary Provider network (VPN). If this adjustment is made at the claim level, the payer must send and the provider should refer to the 835 Class of Contract Code Identification Segment (Loop 2100 Other Claim Related Information REF). If the adjustment is made at the line level, the payer must send and the provider should refer to the 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment (loop 2110 Service Payment information REF) if the regulations apply. It is important to note that this denial code is only applicable for Property and Casualty cases and should be used in conjunction with Group Code CO.
Common causes of code P26 are:
1. Payment adjustment based on Voluntary Provider network (VPN): This code is used when the payer adjusts the payment based on the provider's participation in a voluntary provider network. The provider should refer to the 835 Class of Contract Code Identification Segment (Loop 2100 Other Claim Related Information REF) if the adjustment is at the claim level. If the adjustment is at the line level, the provider should refer to the 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment (loop 2110 Service Payment information REF) if the regulations apply.
2. Property and Casualty claims only: This code is specific to Property and Casualty claims. It should only be used in cases where the claim is related to property and casualty insurance.
3. Group Code CO: This code is used in conjunction with Group Code CO, which indicates that the adjustment is a contractual obligation. The payer is required to send the necessary information to the provider for reference.
It is important for healthcare providers to understand these common causes of code P26 in order to effectively manage their revenue cycle and address any payment adjustments related to voluntary provider networks and property and casualty claims.
Ways to mitigate code P26 include:
1. Ensure accurate network participation: To prevent payment adjustments based on voluntary provider networks (VPN), healthcare providers should regularly review and update their network participation status. This involves verifying their participation in the payer's network and ensuring that all necessary contracts and agreements are in place.
2. Verify contract terms: Providers should thoroughly review their contracts with payers to understand the specific terms and conditions related to VPN adjustments. This includes identifying whether adjustments are made at the claim level or line level and understanding the corresponding requirements for documentation and reference.
3. Implement robust claims management processes: Providers should establish efficient claims management processes to ensure that all necessary information is included in the claim submission. This includes accurately documenting the VPN-related details, such as the 835 Class of Contract Code Identification Segment or the 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment, depending on the adjustment level.
4. Stay updated with regulatory requirements: Providers should stay informed about the latest regulatory requirements related to VPN adjustments. This involves regularly monitoring updates from regulatory bodies and payers to ensure compliance with any changes in policies or guidelines.
5. Conduct internal audits: Regular internal audits can help identify any potential issues or gaps in the claims submission process that may lead to VPN-related payment adjustments. By proactively identifying and addressing these issues, providers can minimize the occurrence of code P26.
6. Maintain open communication with payers: Establishing a strong working relationship with payers is crucial in mitigating code P26. Providers should maintain open lines of communication to clarify any uncertainties or seek guidance on VPN-related adjustments. This can help ensure that claims are submitted correctly and reduce the likelihood of payment adjustments.By implementing these strategies, healthcare providers can effectively mitigate code P26 and minimize the impact of payment adjustments based on voluntary provider networks.
The steps to address code P26 are as follows:
1. Determine if the adjustment is at the Claim Level or Line Level. This information will help guide the next steps.
2. If the adjustment is at the Claim Level, the payer should have sent an 835 Class of Contract Code Identification Segment (Loop 2100 Other Claim Related Information REF). The provider should review this segment to understand the specific details of the adjustment.
3. If the adjustment is at the Line Level, the payer should have sent an 835 Healthcare Policy Identification Segment (Loop 2110 Service Payment information REF) if the regulations apply. The provider should refer to this segment to gain insight into the reason for the adjustment.
4. It is important to note that code P26 is typically used for Property and Casualty claims only. If the claim in question falls under this category, the provider should proceed with the following steps.
5. Review the details of the adjustment and compare it to the terms outlined in the provider's contract with the payer. Look for any discrepancies or potential errors that may have led to the adjustment.
6. If there are any concerns or questions regarding the adjustment, the provider should reach out to the payer directly for clarification. This can be done through the appropriate channels, such as contacting the payer's provider relations department or designated representative.
7. Based on the information gathered and any clarification received from the payer, the provider can then take the necessary steps to address the adjustment. This may involve submitting additional documentation, appealing the decision, or making any necessary corrections to the claim.
By following these steps, healthcare providers can effectively address code P26 and work towards resolving any payment discrepancies or denials related to voluntary provider network adjustments.