Can we file Primary and Secondary insurance claims at same time? Or does it have to be done one at a time?

by sid
(san jose, CA, USA)

Can we file Primary and Secondary insurance claims at same time? Or does it have to be done one at a time?

Typically the Primary insurance claim has to be submitted first before the Secondary insurance will pay - either electronically or via paper claim. For the secondary claims we submit (which are typically on paper CMS-1500), we also submit a copy of the primary EOB (Explanation of Benefits) with the CPT code(s) highlighted with the secondary claim.

Typically the secondary insurance company requires proof that the primary insurer has paid (thus the primary EOB) before they will process the secondary claim.

There are instances with Medicare that they will "crossover" and submit the claim electronically to Medicaid after they have processed.

Thanks for the question Sid - hope this helps.

Thanks,

Gina