Fast answer: Notification of admission was not timely according to published plan procedures.
How to use RARC N385
RARC N385 should be read with the CARC and group code on the same claim or service line. For BCBS denials, the remark often tells you whether the next move is a corrected claim, attachment response, COB update, authorization proof, or appeal packet.
Common paired CARCs
Recommended workflow
- Locate the exact authorization/referral requirement for the member plan and service type.
- Match the auth record to claim fields: member, CPT/HCPCS, diagnosis, provider, facility, dates, units, and place of service.
- If the auth was omitted from the claim, follow corrected-claim rules and include the authorization number.
- If the auth existed but was misapplied, appeal with screenshots, approval letter, call reference, and timeline.
- For BlueCard claims, confirm whether the local/host plan or member/home plan handled the authorization workflow.
Evidence checklist
- Authorization approval
- Referral record
- Portal screenshot
- Call reference number
- Claim image
- Medical records if clinical criteria are disputed
FAQ
What does RARC N385 mean?
Notification of admission was not timely according to published plan procedures.
Is N385 enough to appeal a BCBS denial?
No. Pair the RARC with the CARC, group code, EOB text, claim line, and plan rule. The RARC explains the missing detail or context; the CARC explains the adjustment reason.
What should I attach for N385?
Start with Authorization approval, Referral record, Portal screenshot, Call reference number. Add only the records that answer the specific remark code and denial reason.