B20Denial Code (CARC)Active
Denial Code B20 - Fix Overlapping Service Issues
Code B20 indicates that the procedure or service was either partially or fully provided by a different provider. This means the payer believes another provider has already rendered the same or similar service.
Who Pays: Group Code Liability
If the group code is CO, the provider must write off the amount and cannot bill the patient. If PR is used, the patient may be responsible for the amount, depending on their coverage and coordination of benefits.
Why Claims Get Code B20
- The patient received the same service from another provider around the same time.
- The claim was submitted with incorrect provider information, leading to confusion over who rendered the service.
- Coordination of Benefits (COB) was not correctly followed, and another insurer is primary.
- Duplicate billing due to overlapping service dates with another provider.
- Incorrect billing of a service that is typically bundled with another provider's service.
How to Fix & Resubmit
- Verify the patient's insurance information and ensure the correct coordination of benefits.
- Check with the patient or their medical record to confirm if another provider rendered the same service.
- Review the claim for any errors in provider details and correct them if necessary.
- Contact the payer to understand their records and determine the overlap issue.
- If appropriate, resubmit the claim with correct details or supporting documentation.
Corrected Claim or Appeal?
Submit a corrected claim if there were errors in provider information or COB details. A formal appeal may be necessary if the payer's determination is disputed after verifying all details.
Preventing Future B20 Denials
- Ensure accurate and thorough coordination of benefits information at registration.
- Verify patient service history before submitting claims to avoid duplication.
- Educate staff on the importance of accurate provider information on claims.
- Implement a system to track services provided by external providers to the same patient.