Ep.07 Wound vs. Ulcer: Select the Correct Diagnosis Code

04/09/2025 15 min Temporada 1 Episodio 7

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Episode Synopsis

In Episode 7 of Reimbursement Readiness: Business Tips for Wound Practice, Donna Cartwright joins Kathleen Schaum to tackle one of the most frequently asked questions in wound care coding: When should you report a wound or when should you report an ulcer?Donna breaks down the distinctions between acute wounds and chronic ulcers, covering examples from lacerations, burns, and surgical complications to diabetic and venous ulcers. She explains where to find these codes in the ICD-10-CM, when seventh characters are required, and why understanding the difference is essential for proper reimbursement. You’ll also hear best practices for coding multiple wounds, linking diagnoses to treatments, and navigating payer requirements for underlying causes versus manifestations.By the end of this episode, clinicians and coders alike will gain clarity on how to code accurately and confidently, ensuring compliance while telling the patient’s story correctly in the medical record.DOWNLOADSAcute Wound HandoutChronic Ulcer Handout