How does a coder sequence COPD and pneumonia? As of October 1, 2017 the note under the code J44.0 COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, with acute lower respiratory infection) was changed from “Use additional code to identify infection” to “Code also to identify the infection”. A “code also” note does NOT give a sequencing directive as the “use additional code” does. The PDX should be assigned based on the circumstances of the admission. Below are some examples that may help you determine the PDX when COPD and pneumonia are both present and responsible for the admission.

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