MA24Remark Code (RARC)Active
Effective 01/01/1997 · Updated 06/30/2003

MA24 Remark Code - Christian Science Sanitarium/SNF Billing

The MA24 remark code indicates that a bill from a Christian Science Sanitarium or Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) is present within the same benefit period as another claim. This remark supplements the adjustment already described by an accompanying reason code, clarifying that the payer has recognized multiple claims from these facilities during the specified timeframe.

How It Relates to the Denial

Typically, the MA24 remark code accompanies claim adjustment reason codes that indicate a denial or reduction due to overlapping services or facility claims. This combination signals to the biller that the payer is addressing multiple claims related to a single benefit period, which may affect payment.

Common Scenarios

1A patient received care at a Christian Science Sanitarium and later was admitted to a Skilled Nursing Facility, with claims submitted for both services.
→ The MA24 remark code suggests that the payer has identified both claims as being billed within the same benefit period, which may have implications for coverage or payment.
2A provider submits a claim for a Skilled Nursing Facility stay shortly after a claim for a Christian Science Sanitarium service for the same patient.
→ The presence of the MA24 remark code indicates that the payer is flagging these claims as overlapping, leading to potential adjustments based on the benefit period.
3Following a recent admission to a Christian Science Sanitarium, a subsequent claim for a SNF service is denied due to prior billing within the same benefit period.
→ The MA24 remark code clarifies that the payer is denying or adjusting the SNF claim because it overlaps with the sanitarium claim, emphasizing the need to review the benefit period.

What to Do

  1. Review the claim adjustment reason code accompanying the MA24 remark for specific details on the adjustment.
  2. Ensure that the billing for services from both facilities complies with payer guidelines regarding overlapping claims.
  3. Consider resubmitting claims or appealing adjustments if there is a discrepancy in the benefit period coverage.

What to Check

  • The patient's benefit period dates to confirm the timing of the claims.
  • The claim details for both the sanitarium and SNF services to identify any overlaps.
  • The payer's policy on billing for multiple facility services during the same benefit period.