N191Remark Code (RARC)Active
Effective 02/28/2003

N191 Remark Code - Update Insurance Information

The N191 remark code indicates that the provider needs to update insurance information directly with the payer. This remark supplements an adjustment described by a Claim Adjustment Reason Code, signaling that the claim cannot be processed until the insurance details are current.

How It Relates to the Denial

N191 typically appears alongside adjustment reason codes related to incorrect or outdated insurance information. This combination signals that the claim was denied or adjusted due to the need for updated insurance records.

Common Scenarios

1A provider submitted a claim for a patient whose insurance information was previously updated, but the remittance returned with a denial due to outdated details.
→ The N191 remark code indicates that the payer requires the provider to directly update the patient's insurance information before resubmitting the claim.
2A claim for a procedure was submitted, but the remittance indicated an adjustment due to the insurance policy being invalid or not on file.
→ The presence of N191 suggests that the provider must contact the payer to ensure that the correct insurance information is provided, as the current details are insufficient for processing.
3After billing for a service, the provider received a remittance showing adjustments related to the patient's insurance not matching their records.
→ The N191 remark code points out that the payer expects the provider to rectify the insurance information directly with them to resolve the discrepancy.

What to Do

  1. Contact the payer to update the patient's insurance information directly.
  2. Ensure that all relevant patient insurance documents are current and accurate before resubmitting claims.

What to Check

  • The patient's insurance policy details on file.
  • Any prior communications with the payer regarding insurance updates.
  • The claim adjustment reason code that accompanies N191 for additional context.