Q: Can you summarize how MS-DRG grouper logic works?
A: The first step in grouping an MS-DRG is the assign the case to a major diagnostic category (MDC). This is done by classifying the principal diagnosis into one of 25 MDCs based on body system and case similarity. The only exception is cases with organ transplantation, tracheostomy, or CAR T-cell therapies, which are assigned to a pre-MDC, regardless of the principal diagnosis code.
Next, the procedure codes are analyzed to see if they are classified as medical or surgical. The IPPS logic includes classification of each procedure code as an O.R. procedure (surgical) or non-O.R. procedure (medical). This process result narrows MS-DRG assignment to a tier group.
The last step is to analyze the secondary diagnoses for complications and comorbidities (CCs) and major CCs (MCCs).
Q: Where can we find the list of MS-DRGs and relative weights for FY 2023?
A: The complete list of MS-DRGs with relative weights can be found in Table 5, as part of the IPPS final rule. This table can be downloaded in Excel format in a zip file from CMS’ website: https://www.cms.gov/medicare/acute-inpatient-pps/fy-2023-ipps-proposed-rule-home-page#Tables
Q: What happens with the new ICD-10-CM/PCS codes for the MCE logic?
A: The final rule includes details about applying MCE edits to the new codes, as appropriate. For example, for FY 2023, the new external cause codes for e-bikes have been added to the MCE for unacceptable principal diagnosis and the new obstetrical codes have been added to the female-only list.
9/22/22 Q: I was updating my NTAP tracking list of drugs that are being discontinued based on the presentation but see that the drug Fetroja(Cefiderocol) is on both the discontinued and the continuing NTAP list. This may be due to the fact that there is a difference in the drug for this FY?
A: Fetroja® is included on both lists; the difference is the indication for the drug. Its use as a treatment for complicated UTI (cUTI) is being discontinued for FY 2023. However, when used to treat hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP) or ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP), the NTAP status is being continued.
Table II.F.-01 from the Final Rule includes NTAPs that are being continued. Note that the PCS codes listed for Fetroja® will pay the NTAP for code Y95 (nosocomial infection) in combination with an HABP/VAPB diagnosis:
Kristi Pollard, RHIT, CCS, CPC, CIRCC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer
Senior Consultant
Kristi also performs DRG and APC audits and is known for her vast knowledge on coding vascular interventional radiology procedures. Kristi has an extensive background in coding education and consulting and is a national speakers on topics related to ICD-10 and CPT coding as well as code-based reimbursement.