N158Remark Code (RARC)Active
N158 Remark Code: Non-Covered Transportation Services
The N158 remark code indicates that transportation services billed for a vehicle other than an ambulance are not covered. This remark supplements a Claim Adjustment Reason Code and clarifies the payer's stance on the transportation method used for the service in question.
How It Relates to the Denial
The N158 remark typically accompanies adjustment reason codes related to non-covered services or lack of medical necessity for transportation. The combination signals that the service was denied due to the mode of transport not meeting coverage criteria.
Common Scenarios
1A patient was billed for non-emergency medical transportation provided in a taxi for a scheduled procedure. The remittance returned with an adjustment reason code indicating non-coverage for the transport.
→ The N158 remark clarifies that the use of a taxi for transportation is not covered, confirming the payer's denial of the claim based on the type of vehicle used.
2A healthcare provider submitted a claim for patient transport to a follow-up appointment in a personal vehicle. The claim was denied with an adjustment reason code for non-coverage.
→ The appearance of the N158 remark indicates that the payer does not cover transportation provided in a personal vehicle, reinforcing the denial from the adjustment reason code.
3A claim for a patient’s transport to a rehabilitation facility was submitted, but the remittance included a denial for the service with a remark code indicating the mode of transport was inappropriate.
→ The N158 remark suggests that the denial is specifically related to the fact that the transport was not via an ambulance, which is required for coverage.
What to Do
- Do not appeal the decision if the transport was not via ambulance, as the code specifies non-coverage for other vehicles.
- If applicable, consider rescheduling the transport using an ambulance to ensure coverage for future claims.
What to Check
- Review the claim submission to confirm the type of vehicle used for transportation.
- Check the payer's coverage policy for transportation services to verify requirements for ambulance usage.
- Consult the patient’s medical record to ensure the necessity of transportation is well-documented.