CO-173Contractual ObligationDocumentation
CO-173 Denial Code: Not prescribed by a physician
The service/equipment lacks a physician's prescription where one is required.
Why CO-173 happens
- ●DME dispensed without an order on file
- ●Order signed by a provider type the payer doesn't accept for this item
How to fix a CO-173 denial
- 1
Obtain the order/prescription and appeal or rebill with it
- 2
Confirm the ordering provider type meets requirements
How to prevent it
No-order-no-dispense rules in DME and therapy workflows.
Drowning in CO-173 denials?
OakClaim works every denial within 48 hours and builds prevention rules so they stop recurring.