Q: Does the provider have to say "acute" exacerbation of COPD or just COPD exacerbation?
A: The best way to figure out the required wording is to take a peek into a code book. If we look at the code J44.1 for COPD exacerbation, you see the word “acute” in parentheses. When words within...Read More »
Q: What is the correct procedure code for an esophagogastroduodenoscopy? Our coder coded 0DQ68ZZ, which groups to DRG 326, the same as an esophagectomy. The relative weight (RW) is 5.45. This does not seem right. Could you please clarify?...Read More »
Q:What is the rationale behind not being allowed to code the HIV disease B20 when the provider has documented "probable HIV disease" on the discharge summary?
Q: I am never sure of correct sequencing when the admission is for flu, pneumonia, and asthma.The patient presented in the emergency department (ED) with shortness of breath, still tight after nebulizer treatment in the emergency room. The patient was kept for observation for...Read More »
Q: I am with a CDI program that is starting to explore the severity of illness/risk of mortality (SOI/ROM). I personally have been reviewing for SOI/ROM for quite a while. I usually designate the impact (MCC/CC/SOI/ROM) after the billing is done and see if what I queried for...Read More »
Editor’s Note: Over the coming weeks on the ACDIS Blog, we’ll introduce a few of this year’s speakers who are heading to the podium for the...Read More »
