When the patient has a coexisting condition that the physician diagnoses and treats, the coder must
A) code the coexisting condition first followed by the primary diagnosis.
B) use a combination code to code both diagnoses.
C) add a seventh character code for the coexisting condition.
D) code the primary diagnosis first and then the current coexisting condition.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In medical coding, the primary diagnosis—the main reason for the visit—is coded first. Any current coexisting conditions that are also addressed during the visit are coded afterwards. This ensures clarity in the patient's medical records and helps in the billing process. Combination codes are used when a single code captures both diagnoses, but this option is only applicable if such a code exists and accurately represents the conditions being treated. A seventh character is not universally applied for coexisting conditions; its use is specific to certain coding scenarios, such as injuries, not for general coexisting conditions.

When the Patient Has a Coexisting Condition That the Physician