Q: If documentation states, “probable HIV disease,” is that definitive enough to code?
A: In the instance of HIV, the terms “possible,” “probable,” “likely,” and “suspected” would not apply. Per The Official Guidelines for Coding...Read More »
Q: A question came up recently regarding coding obesity when it is only documented or listed as “a history of obesity.” This seems like it should be a simple concept, but we have heard varying opinions. Some subscribe to the idea that “a history of" could be resolved, so we should...Read More »
The use of a kidney allograft diagnostic automation system stopped 40% of misdiagnoses of allograft rejection from occurring, according to new research published in Nature Medicine. The study also showed improvement in...Read More »
Q: We have seen conflicting information on the upper limit temperature threshold for sepsis with some information suggesting greater than 38°C (>38°C) and some stating 38.3...Read More »
Q: Our team had a question regarding the criteria for chronic respiratory failure. The ACDIS Pocket Guide states the criteria “typically requires continuous oxygen support,” so do patients just need to be on continuous oxygen to meet it?
Q: When we open sensitivity reports, there are all sorts of antibiotic resistances with organisms, some cultures have one “resistant” listed while others have multiple. Do you have any guidance as to when we should query for the resistance? If a patient with a positive culture (wound...Read More »
Earlier this week, CMS issued a proposed rule for the fiscal year (FY) 2024 Medicare hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) and Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System (LTCH PPS) proposed rule (see the...Read More »