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CO-167 - Denial Journal
CARC CO — Contractual Obligation

CO-167

This diagnosis is not covered — missing/incomplete/invalid diagnosis

What This Code Means

The diagnosis code submitted is not covered for the billed service, or is missing/invalid.

Common Causes

  • ICD-10 code doesn't match payer coverage policy for the CPT
  • Diagnosis code truncated or invalid for date of service
  • Diagnosis pointer on claim doesn't align with documentation

How to Resolve or Appeal

  1. Cross-check ICD-10 code validity for the date of service
  2. Confirm the diagnosis supports medical necessity per payer policy
  3. Correct and resubmit as a corrected claim
  4. Query the provider if documentation doesn't support a covered diagnosis

Educational reference only — not medical or legal advice. Always confirm code usage and appeal rights with the specific payer.

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