You finished your session, prepared your invoice, and sent it to your patient. A few weeks later, they come back to you: the supplementary insurer refuses reimbursement. A frustrating scenario, unfortunately common.
In Switzerland, supplementary insurers (LCA) still reject many Tarif 590 invoices for easily correctable errors. Here are the five most common ones — and how to avoid them permanently.
Each discipline recognized by ASCA or RME has a specific four-digit tariff code (1xxx series for Tarif 590). Using a code that does not match your recognized discipline is the most common reason for rejection.
Common examples of errors:
How to avoid this error: systematically verify that the tariff code matches the discipline for which you are ASCA or RME recognized. When in doubt, consult the official OdA KT code list.
The RCC number (Creditor Code Register), issued by SASIS SA, is the identifier that allows insurers to verify your status as a recognized healthcare provider. Without this number, the insurer simply cannot process the invoice.
Common causes:
How to avoid this error: check the validity of your RCC number at least once a year on sasis.ch. Integrate it automatically into your invoice template.
Since 2022, supplementary insurers require a DataMatrix code (ISO/IEC 16022 standard) on every Tarif 590 invoice. This 127-byte 2D code contains essential information: invoice reference, therapist GLN number, treatment date, patient date of birth, and total amount.
Common errors:
How to avoid this error: use software that automatically generates the DataMatrix. Verify that your GLN number (obtained via Refdata) is correctly registered.
Since September 30, 2022, the old payment slips (BVR) have been replaced by the QR-Invoice (standard SIX Group IG v2.3). Formatting errors prevent the patient from paying correctly.
Common errors:
How to avoid this error: make sure your software generates a SIX Group compliant QR-Invoice. Test the QR code with a banking app.
Many therapists don't know this, but supplementary insurers apply processing deadlines. An invoice sent several months after the session can be refused.
Consequences:
How to avoid this error: invoice within the days following the session. Ideally, generate the invoice on the same day. Automatic reminders at D+30 and D+60 ensure follow-up.
Before sending each invoice, verify the following points:
These errors are common because Tarif 590 billing involves many technical constraints. Specialized software for Swiss therapists can automate all these checks: pre-configured tariff codes, automatically generated DataMatrix and QR-Invoice, Swiss rounding, and one-click email sending.
Therago was designed exactly for this. If you want to permanently eliminate these errors and offer a smooth experience to your patients, try it free for 30 days.
Billing with Tarif 590? Therago generates your compliant invoices in a few clicks.
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