ljones88
Networker
Hi all,
I have heard a few colleagues mention that CMS changed the rules effective for 2018 re: the sequencing of diagnosis codes. I have been told that we are now allowed to sequence the primary chief complaint as the 1st diagnosis even if it's an R code. For example, the patient presents to the hospital with acute chest pain (R07.9) but also has a history of uncontrolled hypertension (I10). The cardiologist sees the patient while in observation. Normally from the pro-fee side, I would code it as I10, R07.9 but from what others have told me CMS is now allowing the chief complaint (chest pain in this case) to be coded first and any subsequent conditions or issues are coded after. I can't find this information anywhere through CMS.gov or the local MAC's websites...
Is this true or am I just getting caught up in the grapevine? If so, can someone please point me to the rule or update regarding this?
I have heard a few colleagues mention that CMS changed the rules effective for 2018 re: the sequencing of diagnosis codes. I have been told that we are now allowed to sequence the primary chief complaint as the 1st diagnosis even if it's an R code. For example, the patient presents to the hospital with acute chest pain (R07.9) but also has a history of uncontrolled hypertension (I10). The cardiologist sees the patient while in observation. Normally from the pro-fee side, I would code it as I10, R07.9 but from what others have told me CMS is now allowing the chief complaint (chest pain in this case) to be coded first and any subsequent conditions or issues are coded after. I can't find this information anywhere through CMS.gov or the local MAC's websites...
Is this true or am I just getting caught up in the grapevine? If so, can someone please point me to the rule or update regarding this?
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