N898Remark Code (RARC)Active
N898 Remark Code: Missing or Invalid RUG Codes
The N898 remark code indicates that there are missing, incomplete, or invalid Resource Utilization Group (RUG) codes on the claim. This remark is supplementary and provides additional context to an adjustment previously noted by a Claim Adjustment Reason Code.
How It Relates to the Denial
Typically, N898 accompanies adjustment reason codes that relate to billing errors involving RUG codes. This combination signals that the claim cannot be processed correctly due to issues with RUG code submissions.
Common Scenarios
1A long-term care facility submitted a claim for a patient but received a denial indicating a coding issue. The remittance included the N898 remark code.
→ The N898 remark suggests that the denial is due to the absence or incorrectness of the RUG codes submitted with the claim.
2A skilled nursing facility's claim for a specific treatment was returned with an adjustment for incorrect coding. The remittance advice included N898 alongside a relevant adjustment reason code.
→ In this case, N898 highlights that the adjustment is related to the RUG codes, which must be verified or corrected in the claim submission.
3A rehabilitation center billed for services rendered but received a remittance that included an adjustment and the N898 remark code.
→ The presence of N898 indicates that the RUG codes were either missing or not accurately represented, leading to the adjustment.
What to Do
- Review the claim for missing RUG codes and ensure they are correctly completed.
- Correct any incomplete or invalid RUG codes and prepare to resubmit the claim if necessary.
- Consult the facility's coding guidelines to ensure compliance with RUG code requirements.
What to Check
- Verify the submitted RUG codes against the patient's medical record and service documentation.
- Check the payer's coding guidelines for acceptable RUG codes.
- Review the claim submission details to confirm all required information was included.