Navigating Secondary Insurance Claims: A Comprehensive Guide

Billing secondary insurance claims can be a complex process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of billing secondary insurance claims and how LTC Ally, as a premier back-office solution provider, can help SNFs optimize this critical aspect of their billing operations.

Understanding Secondary Insurance Claims

Secondary insurance, also known as supplemental or additional insurance, comes into play when a patient has primary insurance coverage but still has outstanding medical expenses that are not fully covered. In such cases, the secondary insurance carrier may step in to cover some or all of the remaining costs, depending on the policy terms and coverage limits.

The Billing Process for Secondary Insurance Claims

  1. Verify Coverage: Before submitting a secondary insurance claim, it’s crucial to verify the patient’s coverage with both their primary and secondary insurance carriers. This involves confirming eligibility, coverage details, and any coordination of benefits (COB) requirements.
  1. Submit Primary Claim: The first step in billing secondary insurance is to submit a claim to the primary insurance carrier. Once the primary claim is processed and any applicable payments or denials are received, you can proceed with billing the secondary insurance.
  1. Complete UB04 Form: To bill secondary insurance, SNFs typically use the UB04 form (or electronic equivalent) to provide details of the services rendered, including diagnosis and procedure codes, as well as any payments received from the primary insurance.
  1. Attach Explanation of Benefits (EOB): Along with the UB04 form, it’s essential to attach a copy of the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from the primary insurance carrier. This document provides details of the primary insurance’s payment or denial decision, which helps the secondary insurance carrier process the claim accurately.
  1. Submit Secondary Claim: Once all required documentation is prepared, submit the secondary insurance claim to the appropriate carrier for processing. Be sure to follow any specific submission guidelines and deadlines to avoid delays or denials.

Optimizing Secondary Insurance Claim Billing with LTC Ally

Billing secondary insurance claims requires attention to detail, knowledge of insurance policies, and adherence to strict billing guidelines. LTC Ally specializes in back-office solutions for SNFs, offering expertise and support to optimize the billing process, including secondary insurance claims.

  • Efficient Workflow: With LTC Ally’s streamlined workflows and advanced billing software, SNFs can feel confident that all of their insurance claims are being processed accurately and efficiently. Automated processes reduce manual errors and expedite claim submissions, leading to faster reimbursement.
  • Maximized Reimbursement: By leveraging LTC Ally’s expertise, SNFs can maximize reimbursement for services rendered through strategic billing practices and thorough documentation. LTC Ally helps identify opportunities for optimizing reimbursement while minimizing claim denials and rejections.

Billing secondary insurance claims is an important aspect of revenue cycle management for skilled nursing facilities. By outsourcing their billing to the experts at LTC Ally, SNFs can focus on delivering exceptional care to their residents while being confident that their billing is being handled efficiently and effectively.


Founded in 2006, LTC Ally serves the long-term care industry with an unbound dedication to improving back office and financial operations. With a mission to reduce burdens and increase peace of mind, LTC Ally set out to revolutionize the way facilities handle their revenue cycle management. With a full suite of financial, case management, and contracting solutions for healthcare providers, LTC Ally is your partner in long-term care and skilled nursing.

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