How To Fix Remark Code M401 (RARC) | Common Reasons, Next Steps & How To Avoid It

Remark Code N190 means that there is a missing contract indicator. This code is used to indicate that there is an issue with the contract information related to a claim. It is important to address this remark code to ensure proper billing and reimbursement.

1. Description

Remark Code N190 indicates that there is a missing contract indicator. The official description states: ‘Missing contract indicator.’ This remark code is typically associated with issues related to the contract information associated with a claim. It is crucial to resolve this issue to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

2. Common Reasons

1. Contract indicator not provided: The contract indicator, which specifies the contractual agreement between the healthcare provider and the payer, was not included in the claim.
2. Incorrect contract indicator: The contract indicator provided in the claim does not match the information on file with the payer.
3. Contract indicator missing or incomplete in the system: The contract indicator information is missing or incomplete in the provider’s system, leading to the remark code.
4. System error: Technical issues or system errors may result in the contract indicator not being transmitted correctly or being omitted from the claim.

3. Next Steps

1. Review the contract indicator: Verify that the contract indicator is accurate and matches the information on file with the payer.
2. Contact the payer: Reach out to the payer to confirm the correct contract indicator and update any missing or incorrect information.
3. Update the system: Ensure that the contract indicator information is complete and accurate in the provider’s system to prevent future occurrences of this remark code.
4. Resubmit the claim: Once the contract indicator issue is resolved, resubmit the claim with the correct information to ensure proper billing and reimbursement.

4. How To Avoid It

1. Double-check contract indicator: Before submitting a claim, verify that the contract indicator is accurate and up-to-date.
2. Regularly update contract information: Keep track of any changes in contract information and ensure that it is promptly updated in the provider’s system.
3. Communicate with the payer: Maintain open lines of communication with the payer to address any contract-related issues and ensure accurate billing.
4. Perform system checks: Regularly review the provider’s system to ensure that all necessary contract information is complete and accurate.

5. Example Cases

1. Case 1: A claim is denied due to a missing contract indicator. Upon investigation, it is discovered that the contract indicator was not included in the claim submission.
2. Case 2: A claim is adjusted because the contract indicator provided does not match the information on file with the payer. The provider contacts the payer to update the contract indicator and resubmits the claim for proper reimbursement.

Source: Remittance Advice Remark Codes