N717Remark Code (RARC)Active
N717 Remark Code - Incomplete Face-to-Face Documentation
The N717 remark code indicates that there is incomplete or invalid documentation related to a required face-to-face examination. This remark supplements an adjustment already explained by a Claim Adjustment Reason Code, providing further detail on why the claim was denied or adjusted.
How It Relates to the Denial
The N717 remark code typically accompanies adjustment reason codes that relate to documentation deficiencies. This combination signals to the biller that the claim is being denied or adjusted due to insufficient evidence of a face-to-face examination, which is often necessary for certain services or procedures.
Common Scenarios
1A claim for a behavioral health service was submitted, but the remittance shows the N717 remark along with a reason code indicating denial due to lack of documentation.
→ The N717 remark suggests that the payer found the documentation for the required face-to-face examination inadequate, leading to the denial of the claim.
2A provider submitted a claim for a physical therapy service that requires a face-to-face evaluation, and the payment was reduced with the N717 remark attached.
→ In this case, the N717 remark indicates that the payer is denying part of the claim because the documentation of the necessary face-to-face examination was not properly completed or was missing.
3A claim for a specialist consultation was processed, and the remittance reflects a denial with the N717 remark code, indicating a documentation issue.
→ The presence of the N717 remark means that the payer is signaling that there was an issue with the documentation required for the face-to-face examination, impacting the claim's status.
What to Do
- Review the documentation submitted with the claim to ensure it includes all necessary elements of the face-to-face examination.
- Obtain any missing documentation or clarify any invalid information related to the face-to-face examination.
- Prepare to resubmit the claim with the corrected and complete documentation.
What to Check
- The claim file to verify what documentation was submitted for the face-to-face examination.
- The clinical notes or records to ensure they meet the payer's requirements for a face-to-face examination.
- The payer's policy guidelines regarding documentation requirements for the service billed.