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173
CO - Contractual ObligationDuplicate
Denial Code CO-173: Service/Equipment Duplicate
What Does Code 173 Mean?
Service/equipment has been provided as part of another service or equipment already adjudicated. This is considered a duplicate of a previously paid service.
Group Code CO (Contractual Obligation): The provider has agreed to accept the payer's determination. The patient is generally not responsible for this amount.
Why Does This Happen?
Overlapping date of service or duplicate billing of the same equipment/service.
How to Resolve It
- 1Verify the prior claim that was already paid
- 2If truly a new service, document the distinction
- 3Resubmit with documentation showing separate services
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