N317Remark Code (RARC)Active
N317 Remark Code - Missing Discharge Hour Explained
The N317 remark code indicates that there is a missing, incomplete, or invalid discharge hour associated with the claim. This remark supplements a related claim adjustment reason code, providing additional context about the discharge hour issue that may have affected payment.
How It Relates to the Denial
The N317 remark typically accompanies adjustment reason codes related to incomplete or inaccurate discharge information. This combination signals that the payer requires specific details on the discharge hour to process the claim correctly.
Common Scenarios
1A facility billed for an inpatient stay but received a denial indicating that the discharge hour was missing or invalid.
→ In this case, the N317 remark points to the need for a valid discharge hour, suggesting that the payer could not process the claim due to the lack of this information.
2A claim for a skilled nursing facility stay was submitted, but the remittance shows an adjustment for the discharge hour being incomplete.
→ The N317 remark here indicates that the discharge hour is either not provided or is not in a valid format, which the payer needs for proper claim processing.
3A provider submitted a claim for a patient discharge, but the remittance advised that the discharge hour was invalid, leading to an adjustment.
→ The presence of N317 suggests that the payer requires correction or clarification regarding the discharge hour to proceed with the claim.
What to Do
- Verify the discharge hour recorded on the claim submission is accurate and complete.
- If necessary, correct the discharge hour and resubmit the claim with the appropriate information.
What to Check
- The claim detail for the discharge hour field to ensure it is filled out properly.
- The patient discharge records to confirm the actual discharge time.
- Any payer-specific guidelines regarding required discharge information.