When coding a condition with both a manifestation and an underlying condition, which code is assigned first?

When coding for a condition that includes both a manifestation and an underlying condition, the underlying condition is coded first. This follows the guidelines established in the ICD-10-CM coding conventions, which dictate that the primary or underlying condition should be the focus of coding to ensure that the root cause of the health issue is clearly documented.

The underlying condition provides significant context and understanding of the patient's overall health status. By coding it first, we ensure that the medical record reflects the sequela or manifestations as part of the broader picture rather than placing emphasis solely on the symptoms.

This approach helps facilitate appropriate treatment and management of the underlying condition and is essential for accurately capturing the patient's health information for statistical reporting and analysis. Additionally, proper coding in this manner aids in ensuring that the healthcare provider receives appropriate reimbursement for the services rendered, as many payers require this hierarchical coding structure to process claims accurately.