Wiki ICD-9-CM guideline on uncertain Dx

[chaimz]

In guideline section 3.c. - uncertain Dx, it states if diagnosis is documented as "probable" etc., code the CONDITION as if it existed or was was established.

In guideline section 4.I. - uncertain Dx, it states do not code diagnosis documented as "probable" etc., rather code the condition to the highest degree of specificity.

I under stand section 3 refers to inpatients and section 4 for outpatient, but what I do not understand is it uses the word condition as if it is the same thing as Dx in section 3, and the word condition as if it were different than Dx in section 4.

Can someone please clarify this for me?

Thanks,

Chaim

 

[cynthiabrown]

For inpt, you code as if it existed. For physician code to highest degree of symptom, sign,etc..............

 

[chaimz]

oh duh thanks.

 

[chaimz]

over thinker.