Question

The MS-DRG classification system is hierarchical. Which of the following is the highest level in the hierarchy?

a) MDC (Major Diagnostic Category)
b) SOI (Severity of Illness)
c) ROM (Risk of Mortality)
d) CC (Complication or Comorbidity)

Answer 1

The highest level in the MS-DRG classification system's hierarchy is MDC (Major Diagnostic Category), which classifies diseases related to a single organ system or etiology.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which level is the highest in the hierarchical structure of the MS-DRG classification system. The correct answer is a) MDC (Major Diagnostic Category). The MDC represents the broadest categorization of diseases and conditions that are related to a single organ system or etiology. Within each MDC, diseases can then be further classified based on severity of illness (SOI), risk of mortality (ROM), and the presence of any complications or comorbidities (CC). These levels provide a more detailed understanding of the patient’s condition for billing and coding purposes in healthcare facilities.