How To Handle Claim Resubmissions In Dental Practices
Published on:
Aug 22, 2025

How To Handle Claim Resubmissions In Dental Practices

Claim submissions are prone to errors, but with proper handling, you can enhance patient care while addressing resubmissions. The insurance appeal process requires extra time and effort. That's where Capline Dental Services steps in to streamline the process of claim filing and resubmissions, and strengthen the accounts receivable.

Working with the insurance appeal process ensures that both patients and the practice receive the appropriate benefits, setting the stage for increased profits. Navigating in-network reimbursement is slippery because around half of the revenue is dependent on insurance payers. And unquestionably, insurance policies and payers rethink before reimbursing the claims.

Dealing with insurance payers feels like a fabrication. Insurance companies attempt to maximize their profits by collecting premiums from patients and then denying claims whenever possible, often through the use of contract exclusions, limitations, and frequency restrictions. They reduce the payouts and improve their profits at the expense of individuals who contribute to their revenue.

Claim Correction Tips

Inappropriate procedure codes, incorrect patient details, billing discrepancies, and incorrect provider details result in the resubmission of the claim. Addressing the resubmission helps in avoiding delays in payments and improves accuracy.
Scenarios such as:

  • Post-submission errors in the incorrect procedure code,
  • Receiving notifications from the payer regarding the discrepancies, and
  • Supplementary details are available after submission.

The correction process should happen within 90 to 180 days.

How claim resubmissions get submitted doesn't matter, digitally or on paper. Insurers prefer the electronic version due to its efficacy.

  • The digital format complies with the frequency code 7 and HIPAA 837. Developing notes adds to the detailing.
  • Paper submissions with the CMS-1500 form and containing the frequency code 7 to resubmit the claim with corrections.
  • Tracking the status and taking follow-ups when needed ensures prompt compliance.

Takeaways about Insurance Appeal Process

  • Dental insurance underestimates the appeal process.
  • Successful appeals can improve the overall revenue.
  • Partnering with an RCM company can help you manage appeals while your team focuses on patient care.

Tips for the Insurance Appeal Process

Initial Claim Submission with Comprehensive Information
Insurance companies need pertinent details to reduce the instances of claim denials and appeals. Insufficient documentation is the most frequent cause for rejections and appeals. Insurance appeals are challenging. Enhancing the claim with intraoral photos and detailed narratives can support the necessity of the procedure and eliminate reasons for refusal.

List of Appeal Requirements for Insurers
Each insurers have a separate set of expectations that create hurdles for the team. For instance, some insurers treat an appeal as a new claim, while others ask for EOB. Additionally, some insurance companies require a different web address for appeals, while others use a web portal for the same purpose. The requirements are unique, and to reduce time and effort, a diligent organization of details can result in positive outcomes.

Templates for Resubmissions
Insurance payers deny procedures based on internal policies. To save time, creating a letter template designed to fill in the latest details, such as the patient's name, claim number, and other information, can smooth the process at your fingertips.

Demand your Yes
Single appeals are opportunities to overturn the denial. When claims are unsettled, financial responsibility shifts. Now the patient has to bear the cost, which leads to overhead expenses. Stay persistent with appeals until they get resolved.

Prioritize your patients
Maximizing insurance collection enhances patient retention and professionalism. Patients appreciate when their dental company prioritizes their needs and gives them immediate attention. Faith in the practice and referrals cannot go unnoticed.

Stumbling Blocks When Following the Insurance Appeal Process

Inaccurate Details
An error in patient or provider details can lead to claim denials. The errors are incorrect birth dates, misspelled names, and inaccurate insurance ID numbers. These mistakes are costly. To avoid these, following a strict verification process ensures accuracy. To make precise records, utilize technology for cross-checking demographic data. Empowering staff with training to ensure there is accuracy in patient check-in.

Outdated CDT Codes
Outdated codes are a contributing factor to denials and fraudulent activity. Implementing training workshops focused on the latest CDT code updates can keep the practice ahead. Investing in Capline Services ensures compliance with technology, for example, a built-in code validation feature to prevent setbacks. Coding updates continue annually.

Insufficient Documentation
Documentations like X-rays, periodontal charts, and detailed clinical notes lead to quick payments. The absence of critical documents causes unnecessary delays in reimbursements. For instance,
codes D4341 and D4342 for scaling and root planing mandate radiographic documents along with clinical narratives. Creating a checklist for essential documents ensures the claim is supported, which leads to enhanced claim processing and improves the revenue stream. Before the submission, implementing an audit reduces the likelihood of rejection.

Issues with Verification
Denial is a consequence of inaccurate details. An efficient process involves current insurance details and obtaining pre-authorizations for implants and cosmetic procedures to prevent unexpected costs and enhance patient satisfaction.

Missing Filing Deadlines
Following the insurer-imposed deadlines is mandatory. Failure to meet can create repercussions. A routine for claim submissions, done daily or twice a week, makes it effortless. The staff is not in a hurry and can give sufficient time to claims. Prioritize submissions on the earliest deadlines to follow compliance and maximize approval.

Bundling Issues
Inappropriate bundling can impact the reimbursement and beneficiary benefits. For example, combining panoramic radiographs with bitewings is reimbursed as a full-mouth exam. To avoid such issues, regular updates about the complexities of payer guidelines can foster a culture of accuracy.

Failure to resolve Denied Claims
Denied claims need immediate action to maximize revenue recovery. A structured follow-up strategy ensures no loss. The EOB clearly shows the reasons for claim denials. These steps can improve financial outcomes.

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