When you assign separate codes that are used to identify acute and chronic conditions, the acute code is sequenced first.

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This is a correct statement according to the official coding guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). When coding for a patient's conditions or diagnoses, the acute code should be sequenced before the chronic code, as this reflects the order of priority or significance of the conditions in terms of current management and treatment needs. In general, acute conditions are those that have a sudden onset, are typically severe or intense, and require immediate or short-term medical attention, while chronic conditions are those that have a long-term or ongoing course, are generally less severe but often require ongoing or maintenance treatment, and may be related to underlying or comorbid conditions. By following this coding convention, healthcare providers and payers can accurately capture and communicate the patient's condition and ensure appropriate reimbursement for services provided.

When You Assign Separate Codes That Are Used to Identify