When a patient has both a primary and a secondary payer plan, what is the correct procedure for claims submission?

When a patient has both a primary and a secondary payer plan, the correct procedure for claims submission involves submitting a primary claim to the primary payer first, and then generating a new claim for the secondary payer based on the primary payer's response. This ensures that each insurer processes the claim in the order of their responsibility.

The primary payer evaluates the claim and determines the amount of coverage, which is influenced by the patient's policy details and the services provided. Once this claim is processed, a remittance advice is issued, detailing the payment information, including any remaining balance that the secondary payer may cover. The new claim for the secondary payer will include this information to accurately reflect what was paid by the primary insurer, along with any outstanding balance eligible for coverage under the secondary plan.

This method also enhances clarity and accuracy in billing, ensuring that both payers are informed about their respective payment responsibilities. Submitting both claims separately allows the secondary payer to assess the claim based on the primary payer's actions without the complications that can arise from combining claims or attempting to split payments directly between insurers.