N254Remark Code (RARC)Active
Effective 12/02/2004

N254 Remark Code - Missing Attending Provider Identifier

The N254 remark code indicates that the claim has a missing, incomplete, or invalid secondary identifier for the attending provider. This remark supplements an adjustment already described by a Claim Adjustment Reason Code, providing additional context about the attending provider's information on the claim.

How It Relates to the Denial

The N254 remark code typically accompanies adjustment reason codes that indicate a claim denial or reduction due to issues with the attending provider's identification. This combination signals that the attending provider's secondary identifier needs to be corrected or completed for proper processing.

Common Scenarios

1A claim was submitted for an outpatient procedure, but the remittance shows a denial due to missing information about the attending provider.
→ In this case, the N254 remark code suggests that the attending provider's secondary identifier was either not included or was incorrect, prompting the payer to reject the claim.
2A facility claim for inpatient services received an adjustment indicating a payment reduction, with the remittance including the N254 remark code.
→ Here, the N254 indicates that the adjustment is linked to issues with the attending provider's secondary identifier, which must be resolved for the payment to be reconsidered.
3A claim for a specialist consultation was denied, and the remittance included the N254 remark code along with a primary adjustment reason code.
→ The N254 remark code highlights that the attending provider's secondary identifier was missing or invalid, which is essential information for the payer to process the claim correctly.

What to Do

  1. Verify the attending provider's secondary identifier on the claim is complete and accurate.
  2. Correct any errors in the secondary identifier and resubmit the claim to the payer.
  3. Ensure that the attending provider's information matches what is on file with the payer.

What to Check

  • The claim form submitted for the attending provider's secondary identifier.
  • The payer's provider enrollment documents for the attending provider.
  • Any correspondence from the payer regarding the claim denial or adjustment.