How do I fix OHIP error code B4?

Compare the virtual line with the paid in-person claim: date, physician and problem. If they are the same encounter, or the virtual visit led straight to the in-person one, there is nothing to fix. If the modality indicator was added to an in-person service by mistake, or the two were separate, medically necessary visits, send a Remittance Advice Inquiry (RAI) through eSubmit, or on form 0918-84, within 7 months of the RA date, with supporting details such as your chart notes.

When shouldn't I resubmit a B4 claim?

The virtual and in-person services were the same encounter. The claim is already on the RA and you only disagree with the decision. Use an RAI, not a new claim.

< Error codes

Error code

B4 — Virtual service not allowed with the same in-person service

Q: What does OHIP error code B4 mean?

OHIP didn't pay this virtual service because the same service was already paid in person for this patient. Often there's nothing to fix.

Already paid in person

The same service was already paid in person for this patient, so the virtual line wasn't paid.

What to do: Compare it with the paid in-person claim; if they were the same encounter, there is nothing to fix.

Code: B4
Description: Virtual service not allowed with the same in-person service

Explanation

Updated October 26, 2026

OHIP didn't pay this virtual service because the same service was already paid in person for this patient. Often there's nothing to fix.

What it means

Code B4 means a virtual service was refused because the in-person version of the same service was already paid for the patient. The virtual line is the one not paid.

The Ministry's code list doesn't say over what period the two are compared. The Schedule also says that if it becomes clear during a virtual service that an in-person encounter is needed, only the in-person service is payable (A67).

Common causes

A phone or video visit followed by an in-person visit for the same problem
The same encounter billed both as virtual and in person
A modality indicator added by mistake to an in-person claim

How to fix it

Compare the virtual line with the paid in-person claim: date, physician and problem.
If they are the same encounter, or the virtual visit led straight to the in-person one, there is nothing to fix.
If the modality indicator was added to an in-person service by mistake, or the two were separate, medically necessary visits, send a Remittance Advice Inquiry (RAI) through eSubmit, or on form 0918-84, within 7 months of the RA date, with supporting details such as your chart notes.

Don't resubmit if

The virtual and in-person services were the same encounter.
The claim is already on the RA and you only disagree with the decision. Use an RAI, not a new claim.

How APEX handles it

APEX reads your error reports and remittance advice from MCEDT and lists claims rejected with this code in its Correction Centre for you to correct and resubmit. See how APEX works · Pricing

Related codes: B5, B6, B7, TM4