N398Remark Code (RARC)Active
N398 Remark Code - Missing Elective Consent Form
The N398 remark code indicates that a missing elective consent form is the reason for the adjustment. This remark supplements an existing Claim Adjustment Reason Code by clarifying that the absence of this specific documentation led to the denial or adjustment of the claim.
How It Relates to the Denial
Typically, the N398 remark appears alongside reason codes related to denied services that require patient consent. The combination signals that the payer requires proof of consent for elective procedures before reimbursement will be considered.
Common Scenarios
1A provider billed for a scheduled elective surgery, but the claim came back with a denial indicating a missing consent form.
→ The presence of the N398 remark suggests that the payer is denying the claim due to the lack of an elective consent form, which is necessary for processing such claims.
2A claim for a cosmetic procedure was submitted, but the remittance advised that payment was adjusted because the consent form was not included.
→ The N398 remark points to the need for a signed elective consent form, indicating that the payer will not process the claim without this documentation.
3A health facility submitted a claim for a non-emergency procedure, receiving an adjustment notice that included the N398 remark.
→ This remark highlights that the payer is enforcing their policy requiring an elective consent form, and the absence of this document is what led to the claim adjustment.
What to Do
- Obtain the missing elective consent form from the patient or provider.
- Submit the consent form along with the corrected claim to the payer.
- Ensure that all future claims for elective procedures include the necessary consent documentation.
What to Check
- Review the patient's file for a signed elective consent form.
- Check the original claim submission for any documentation requirements noted.
- Consult the payer's policy on consent forms for elective procedures.