Healthcare Error Code
Healthcare Insurance / Medical Billing
Claim Adjustment Reason Codes (CARC)
CO-39 | Services denied as experimental
Industry
Healthcare
Canonical
/healthcare/error-codes/co-39/
Last Updated
Feb 25, 2026
Summary
This code indicates that the payer considers the service experimental or investigational under the plan.
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What This Code Means
CO-39 is used when a payer determines that a service does not meet coverage criteria due to its experimental or investigational status. Coverage policies define which services qualify for reimbursement. This determination is based on policy guidelines rather than claim submission quality. It does not imply improper billing or service delivery. Coverage decisions may differ between payers.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- EOB statements
- Remittance advice
- Coverage determination notices
Why This Code Appears
- The service is classified as experimental by the payer
- Coverage criteria were not met
- Policy guidelines restrict reimbursement
What Typically Happens Next
- The service is denied for payment
- The claim is closed
- Appeal options may exist depending on policy
What This Code Is Not
- It is not a documentation error
- It is not a contractual adjustment
- It is not an automatic audit trigger
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Review coverage policy language
- □ Confirm classification criteria
- □ Monitor policy updates
Notes And Edge Cases
Definitions of experimental services vary by insurer. Policy updates may change how this code is applied over time.
Related Codes
8 links
- CO-50 CodeNon-covered services
- CO-204 CodeService not covered under plan
- CO-54 CodeMultiple physicians not allowed
- CO-133 CodeIncorrect provider type
- CO-61 CodeProcedure not covered for age
- CO-62 CodeNot covered for place of service
- CO-200 CodeNon-covered service
- CO-109 CodeClaim not covered by this payer
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