Remark code N46 indicates an error due to missing, incomplete, or invalid admission hour on a healthcare claim.
Remark code N46 indicates that the claim has been flagged because the admission hour is either missing, incomplete, or invalid. This means that the information provided regarding the time the patient was admitted for healthcare services does not meet the necessary requirements or was not included in the documentation submitted. To resolve this issue, the healthcare provider must review the claim, correct the admission hour information, and resubmit it for processing.
Common causes of code N46 are incorrect or missing entries for the patient's admission time on the claim form, data entry errors during the billing process, or discrepancies between the recorded admission hour and the hour documented in the patient's medical records. Additionally, the use of non-standard time formats or failure to update the admission hour after a change in the patient's admission status can also trigger this code.
Ways to mitigate code N46 include implementing a thorough review process to ensure that the admission hour is accurately recorded and clearly documented on all patient intake forms and electronic health records. Training staff to recognize the importance of this data point and to double-check for its presence before submitting claims can also help. Utilizing automated software that flags missing or incomplete data fields can prevent claims from being submitted without the required admission hour information. Regular audits of submitted claims can also help identify patterns that lead to this error, allowing for corrective action to be taken.
The steps to address code N46 involve verifying the patient's admission records to ensure the admission hour is accurately documented. Cross-check the admission hour against the patient's medical records, admission forms, and any electronic health record (EHR) entries. If the admission hour is missing or incorrect, update the records with the correct information. Once the correct admission hour is established, resubmit the claim with the updated information. Ensure that all future documentation captures the admission hour accurately to prevent this issue from recurring.
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