The health information practitioner had two patient records, each with a final diagnosis fracture of the pelvis. Patient A had a single break in the pelvic ring; patient B had severe multiple fractures of the pelvis and a possible pulmonary embolus. Although the principal diagnosis is the same, what method can be used to further recognize the patient who is at a higher risk?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The severity of illness system is a method that can be used to further recognize the patient who is at a higher risk. It takes into account the severity of the condition and the complexity of the treatment required, and assigns a score or level of severity. In this case, patient B's severe multiple fractures and possible pulmonary embolus would likely result in a higher severity of illness score than patient A's single break in the pelvic ring. SNDO codes and HCPCS codes are used for coding medical procedures and services, and RUGS is a system used in long-term care for determining reimbursement rates based on patient characteristics and care needs, but they do not provide information on the severity of the patient's condition.

The Health Information Practitioner Had Two Patient Records, Each with a Final