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M86 - Denial Journal
RARC

M86

Service denied — payment already made for the same/similar procedure within a set time frame

What This Code Means

The payer already paid for the same or a similar procedure within its allowed frequency window.

Common Causes

  • Frequency limit for the procedure not checked before scheduling/billing
  • Similar procedure billed twice within the payer's defined period

How to Resolve or Appeal

  1. Verify the payer's frequency limitation for this procedure
  2. Appeal with clinical justification if repeat service was medically necessary

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

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