Sequela codes are typically reported as what type of diagnosis?

Sequela codes, which are used to indicate a condition resulting from a previous illness or injury, are typically reported as a secondary diagnosis. This is because the primary diagnosis often reflects the current condition or reason for the visit, while the sequela code highlights the lingering effects or complications that have arisen from a past encounter.

In many clinical scenarios, the primary diagnosis is established based on the immediate concern that brought the patient to the healthcare provider, such as an exacerbation of a present illness or a new health issue. The secondary diagnosis, on the other hand, captures additional health issues that may affect the course of treatment or the patient's overall health status, such as the aftermath of a previous injury or the long-term effects of a disease. Reporting sequelae as a secondary diagnosis ensures that healthcare records accurately reflect the patient's complete medical history and informs appropriate care and management decisions.