MA120Remark Code (RARC)Active
MA120 Remark Code - Missing CLIA Certification Number
The MA120 remark code indicates that the claim was denied due to a missing, incomplete, or invalid CLIA certification number. This means the payer requires a valid CLIA number to process the claim correctly, as it is essential for certain laboratory services.
How It Relates to the Denial
The MA120 remark typically accompanies adjustment reason codes related to claim denials for laboratory services. This combination signals that the claim cannot be processed until the required CLIA certification information is provided or corrected.
Common Scenarios
1A laboratory billed for a series of diagnostic tests but received a denial that included the MA120 remark.
→ The MA120 remark indicates that the lab's CLIA certification number was not included or was incorrect, which the payer needs to resolve the denial.
2A facility submitted a claim for outpatient lab services but the remittance shows the MA120 code alongside a denial reason for lack of proper documentation.
→ In this case, the MA120 remark clarifies that the documentation issue specifically relates to the absence or invalidity of the CLIA certification number.
3A physician's office submitted claims for lab tests, and the 835 response included MA120, indicating a problem with the certification number.
→ The MA120 remark is pointing out that the certification number associated with the lab tests is either missing or not valid, preventing payment.
What to Do
- Obtain the correct CLIA certification number from the laboratory or facility.
- Ensure the CLIA number is accurately entered in the claim submission.
- Resubmit the claim with the valid CLIA certification number included.
What to Check
- The laboratory's CLIA certification documentation to confirm validity.
- The claim form fields where the CLIA number is entered for accuracy.
- The payer's specific requirements for CLIA certification numbers related to lab services.