The AHA Coding Clinic is not just for hospital coding; their guidance often applies to all the different healthcare settings, even physician offices and clinics. With this new release of Coding Clinic, there are some steps that I advise HIM, coding, and CDI professionals to take:
This is supported by Guideline IC.18.b, “Codes for signs and symptoms may be reported in addition to a related definitive diagnosis when the sign or symptom is not routinely associated with that diagnosis.” 25. How should we code neonates/newborns that test positive for COVID-19? (5/26/2020)
The Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting for sequela state, "A sequela is the residual effect (condition produced) after the acute phase of an illness or injury has terminated." 52. How is an encounter/admission for COVID-associated pneumonia coded, when the patient's latest COVID-19 test results are negative? (3/1/2021)
The American Hospital Association (AHA) central office is the official United States clearinghouse on medical coding for the proper use of the ICD-10-CM/PCS systems and Level I HCPCS (CPT-4 codes) for hospital providers – and certain Level II HCPCS codes for hospitals, physicians, and other health professionals.
The AHA Coding Clinic is not just for hospital coding; their guidance often applies to all the different healthcare settings, even physician offices and clinics. With this new release of Coding Clinic, there are some steps that I advise HIM, coding, and CDI professionals to take:
AHA offers materials designed to supplement classroom work and exercises in the ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding Handbook. Available materials include slide decks covering the key points of each chapter and exercise test banks.
Revised March 24, 2021