Denial codes / PR-3
Denial code 3PR-3: Co-payment
Co-payment amount.
What to doUsually the patient's share
Often recoverableUsually not
The letters in front matter. CO means the office can't bill the patient for the amount; PR means the patient may owe it. The same number can appear with either, so read both parts.
Why dental offices see it
- A fixed co-pay under the patient's plan (common in DHMO and some Medicaid plans).
What to do
- Confirm the co-pay matches the plan's schedule.
- Collect from the patient.
Stop it next time
Collect known co-pays at check-in.
How many PR-3 claims are in your report? The free check counts them, ranks them by dollars and deadline and drafts the letter. It runs in your browser; nothing is uploaded.
Plain-English paraphrase; the official code list is maintained by X12. Insurer rules vary; check the insurer's provider manual. Not legal advice.