N153Remark Code (RARC)Active
Effective 10/31/2002

N153 Remark Code: Missing Room and Board Rate Explained

The N153 remark code indicates that the billed claim has a missing, incomplete, or invalid room and board rate. This remark supplements an existing adjustment reason code, providing further clarification on why the claim is being adjusted or denied.

How It Relates to the Denial

The N153 remark typically accompanies adjustment reason codes related to billing errors or discrepancies in room and board rates. The combination signals that the payer requires accurate room and board information to process the claim appropriately.

Common Scenarios

1A hospital submitted a claim for inpatient services, but the remittance came back indicating an adjustment due to room and board issues.
→ In this scenario, the N153 remark highlights that the room and board rate provided on the claim was either missing or incorrect, prompting the need for a correction.
2A skilled nursing facility billed for a patient’s stay, and the remittance included an adjustment for room and board without specifying the rate.
→ Here, the N153 remark signifies that the payer could not process the claim due to the absence or invalidity of the room and board rate, signaling the need for accurate information.
3A long-term care facility received a denial for a claim that included room and board charges, with the remittance stating there was an issue with the rate.
→ The presence of the N153 remark indicates that the room and board rate was either not included or did not meet the payer’s requirements, necessitating review and correction.

What to Do

  1. Verify the room and board rate submitted on the claim for accuracy.
  2. Correct any missing or invalid information related to the room and board rate.
  3. Resubmit the claim with the updated room and board rate as required.

What to Check

  • The claim form submitted to ensure the room and board rate is included and correct.
  • Payer guidelines for acceptable room and board rates to ensure compliance.
  • Any correspondence from the payer that outlines their requirements for room and board billing.