Combo coding

kwilliams@halifaxrmc.orgkwilliams@halifaxrmc.org
in CDI Talk Archive
Gangrene and atherosclerosis have been documented by the primary and cardiologist, but are not linked. Can the combination code of atherosclerosis with gangrene (440.24) be used?

Comments

  • jolene.filejolene.file
    edited April 2016
    If the physician has documented as arteriosclerotic PVD or arteriosclerosis with gangrene in the extremeties/location, I would say yes. My interpretation. Reference- CC. 4th Qrtr. 1995, AS and Gas Gangrene and CC- 4th Qrtr. 1992 - Arteriosclerotic PVD.

    Hope that is helpful. Have a GREAT Monday!

    Jolene File,RHIT,CCS,CPC-H,CCDS
    Documentation Improvement Specialist-Coder
    Hays Medical Center
    jolene.file@haysmed.com

  • kwilliams@halifaxrmc.orgkwilliams@halifaxrmc.org
    edited April 2016
    Gangrene and arteriosclerosis were not linked. Can the combo code 440.24 be used?

  • jolene.filejolene.file
    edited April 2016
    If you look in the index arteriosclerosis with gangrene, it codes to 440.24....so in my opinion, yes. I would guess that in the record the AS is linked to PVD or location, such as the extremities. If not, I would probably query for them to specify the location of the AS.

    Jolene File,RHIT,CCS,CPC-H,CCDS
    Documentation Improvement Specialist-Coder
    Hays Medical Center
    jolene.file@haysmed.com

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