Wiki Side Effect vs. Adverse Reaction

Create Wiki
J

jessv1910

Networker
Messages
75
Location
West Milford, NJ
Best answers
0
Someone told me that we do not report the E code identifying the drug when the doctor states "side effect". She said that you only code the condition such as "rash" and no e code. She also said that when the doctor states "adverse reaction due to the medication" then you would code the condition and the drug causing it. Is this correct? I have alsways code the e code identifying the drug as therapeutic use whe reported as side effect or adverse effect. Have I been doing it wrong all this time? Please help!!!
 
Adverse Effects

My old AHIMA Basic Coding Handbook says it is correct coding to use the Ecode for adverse reactions , which can happen for a variety of reasons: cumulative effect, hypersensitivity or allergic reaction, synergistic reaction to another drug, side effects.
ICD9 often has a symptom code specific to drug reaction. And often the book will tell you to add the Ecode.
I use Ecode often as well.
Tricia D
Providence Oncology
 
Thank you Tricia and Debra! I feel better knowing that I'm not the only one reporting the side effect and adverse reaction the same way and reporting the E code to identify the substance causing the condition. Do you or anybody else happen to know if there is a coding clinic or something that I can refer this person to (She happens to be my supervisor)?
 
According to PEDIAA:

Side Effect and Adverse Effect are two terms that are often used in the field of medicine. Though these two terms look similar, there is a distinct difference between side effect and adverse effect. The main difference between side effect and adverse effect is, a side effect can be either harmful or beneficial while an adverse effect is typically harmful and undesirable. In addition, adverse effects are more severe and life-threatening than side effects.

So to sum it up according to PEDIAA: Side effect is "In Addition To" and Adverse effect is "harmful".

With that said, If they doctor states side effect, better to not code it as an adverse effect.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top