CMS recently released the fiscal year ( FY) 2021 IPPS final rule , which increased hospital payment rates, created new MS-DRGs, and finalized CC/MCC designations.
The final 2021 CPT, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS code sets were released last week, introducing new, revised, and deleted codes for diagnostic and procedural services and accompanying guideline changes. Read up on the changes, which will impact payment for hospital services in 2021.
Alba Kuqi, MD, CCS, CDIP, CCDS, CRCR, CICA, CSCM, explains the definition of acute ischemic syndrome and the clinical indicators that make a difference when reviewing a medical record. In part one of this two-part series, Kuqi takes a look at the myocardial anatomy, stable/unstable angina, and Prinzmetal's angina.
Julian Everett, RN, BSN, CDIP, reviews ICD-10-CM reporting and clinical criteria for pneumonia and its causative agents and associated comorbidities. Everett also details documentation recommendations for providers to ensure inpatient coders can report this disease with the utmost accuracy.
Sarah Nehring, CCS, CCDS, RHIT , writes that the increased complexity and cost of implantable cardiac defibrillator devices is reflected in the higher relative weight and longer length of stay for these MS-DRGs compared to pacemaker MS-DRGs. Note : To access this free article, make sure you first register here if you do not have a paid subscription.
Although a great deal has been written about acute respiratory failure, chronic respiratory failure has not received as much attention even though it may also impact MS-DRG assignment and risk adjustment.
This increase in alcohol-related deaths is consistent with reports of increases in alcohol-related illnesses and injuries during the same period. This study highlights the fact that alcohol-related admissions are not uncommon, which is why inpatient coders should brush up on reporting these disorders in ICD-10-CM.
Departmental silos are prevalent in the healthcare world and can lead to unvoiced frustrations and counterproductive work. Different organizations have different approaches to breaking down these walls, often through regular interdepartmental meetings or newsletters.
Sharme Brodie, RN, CCDS, CCDS-O , writes that the cost of new technologies can lead to an overwhelming financial burden to hospitals and patients, which is why accurate reporting of ICD-10-PCS codes in the new technology section of the ICD-10-PCS manual is more important than ever.
