MA121Remark Code (RARC)Active
Effective 01/01/1997 · Updated 12/02/2004

MA121 Remark Code - Missing X-Ray Date Explained

The MA121 remark code indicates that the claim was denied or adjusted due to a missing, incomplete, or invalid x-ray date. This remark supplements an adjustment already noted by a Claim Adjustment Reason Code, providing clarity on the specific issue related to the x-ray date.

How It Relates to the Denial

The MA121 remark code typically accompanies adjustment reason codes that indicate a claim denial or reduction based on insufficient or incorrect date information. This combination signals to the biller that there is a need to address the x-ray date specifically to resolve the claim issue.

Common Scenarios

1A facility submitted a claim for an x-ray service rendered but received a remittance showing a denial due to insufficient information.
→ The presence of the MA121 remark code suggests that the payer found the x-ray date to be missing or invalid, which directly impacted the claim's processing.
2A provider billed for a series of x-rays, but the remittance returned with an adjustment indicating a partial payment due to an invalid x-ray date.
→ The MA121 remark code here indicates that the payer's adjustment was specifically influenced by the x-ray date issue, necessitating correction for full payment.
3A claim for a diagnostic x-ray was denied, and the remittance included a reason code for denial along with the MA121 remark code.
→ This indicates that the denial was specifically due to the x-ray date being incomplete or incorrect, which must be rectified to appeal the denial.

What to Do

  1. Verify the x-ray date on the claim to ensure it is complete and accurate.
  2. Correct any missing or invalid x-ray date information before resubmitting the claim.
  3. Include a detailed explanation or documentation regarding the x-ray date if necessary.

What to Check

  • The original claim submission for the x-ray service to confirm the date provided.
  • Any notes or documentation related to the x-ray service that may clarify the date.
  • The payer's policy regarding required information for x-ray claims to ensure compliance.