How To Fix Remark Code M532 (RARC) | Common Reasons, Next Steps & How To Avoid It

Remark Code N323 means that there is a missing, incomplete, or invalid last contact date. This code is used to indicate the reason for denial or adjustment of a claim when the last contact date is not properly documented or is not provided at all.

1. Description

Remark Code N323 indicates that there is a missing, incomplete, or invalid last contact date. The official description states: ‘Missing/incomplete/invalid last contact date.’ The last contact date is an important piece of information in medical coding and billing as it helps determine the timeline of patient care and treatment. Without a valid last contact date, it becomes challenging to accurately assess the patient’s condition and provide appropriate billing.

2. Common Reasons

1. Missing last contact date: Sometimes, healthcare providers fail to document the last contact date in the patient’s medical records, leading to claim denials or adjustments.
2. Incomplete last contact date: Incomplete documentation of the last contact date, such as missing specific details or timestamps, can result in claim issues.
3. Invalid last contact date: If the provided last contact date does not align with the treatment timeline or is outside the acceptable range, it may be considered invalid and lead to claim problems.

3. Next Steps

1. Review medical records: Healthcare providers should thoroughly review the patient’s medical records to ensure that the last contact date is properly documented.
2. Obtain missing information: If the last contact date is missing or incomplete, contact the relevant healthcare professionals or departments to obtain the necessary information.
3. Verify accuracy: Double-check the accuracy of the last contact date to ensure it aligns with the patient’s treatment timeline and is within the acceptable range.

4. How To Avoid It

1. Implement proper documentation practices: Healthcare providers should establish clear protocols for documenting the last contact date in the patient’s medical records.
2. Train staff on the importance of accurate documentation: Educate and train healthcare professionals and administrative staff on the significance of capturing and recording the last contact date correctly.
3. Use electronic health record (EHR) systems: Implementing EHR systems can help streamline documentation processes and reduce the chances of missing or incomplete last contact dates.

5. Example Cases

1. Case 1: A claim for a follow-up visit is denied because the last contact date is missing from the patient’s medical records, emphasizing the importance of proper documentation.
2. Case 2: A claim adjustment occurs due to an invalid last contact date that does not align with the treatment timeline, highlighting the need for accurate and consistent documentation.

Source: Remittance Advice Remark Codes