N286N-series (general use)Provider Identifiers
N286: Referring provider identifier missing/invalid
The referring provider's NPI is missing or invalid on a claim that requires one (consults, therapy, diagnostics).
Commonly appears with these denial codes
CO-16CO-183
The denial code gives the category; N286 pinpoints the specific problem. Read them together before touching the claim.
What to do about it
Add the individual (not organizational) NPI of the referring provider and resubmit. Capture referral NPIs during scheduling.
OakClaim fixes root causes, not just claims.
Free billing audit shows which remark codes keep recurring in your AR — and what they're costing you.