2027 DRG Desk Reference
The ultimate resource for improving MS-DRG assignment practices
The 2027 DRG Desk Reference gives access to crucial information to improve MS-DRG assignment practices, guidance on how to accurately assign DRGs under the MS-DRG system and focuses on the Optimizing section of the DRG Desk Reference based on ICD-10 codes.
The DRG Desk Reference is designed to work hand-in-hand with Optum’s DRG Expert. These products will answer all your DRG questions for all inpatient stays starting after October 1, 2026, as those claims will use the MS-DRG methodology based on the ICD-10 coding systems.
- Optum Edge — Optimizing tips. Quickly identify the key diagnoses, procedures, or CC/MCC requirements involved in moving a patient from a lower-paying MS-DRG to a higher one to receive optimal payment while staying in compliance.
- Optum Edge — DRG decision trees. Optum created DRG decision trees illustrate the DRG structure for each MDC.
- Commonly missed CC and MCC references. Perform accurate audits by knowing the most commonly missed CC/MCCs in the medical record.
- ICD-10-CM/PCS Codes by MS-DRG. Includes every MS-DRG along with all associated ICD-10 diagnosis and procedure codes.
- Complete CC and MCC list. Know how codes considered MCCs and CCs will affect DRG assignment—helping to legitimately improve reimbursement.
- Relative weights for every valid MS-DRG. A quick reference of the relative weights of all DRGs presented as options for optimizing.
- Related ICD-10-PCS appendixes. ICD-10-PCS root operation Definitions, Body Part Key, and Devise Key and Aggregation Table providing further clarity of the coding process.
Anita Schmidt, BS, RHIA, AHIMA-approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer
Anita Schmidt has expertise in ICD-10-CM/PCS, DRG, and CPT with more than 20 years’ experience in coding in multiple settings, including inpatient, observation, and same-day surgery. Her experience includes analysis of medical record documentation, assignment of ICD-10-CM and PCS codes, and DRG validation. She has collaborated with clinical documentation specialists to identify documentation needs and potential areas for physician education. Most recently she has been developing content for resource and educational products related to ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, DRG, and CPT. Anita is an AHIMA-approved ICD-10-CM/PCS trainer and is an active member of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the Minnesota Health Information Management Association (MHIMA).
Laura Anderson, RN, BSN, CCDS
Laura Anderson is a Registered Nurse and CDI Specialist/Educator with more than 20 years of experience in the health care profession. She obtained her BSN at the University of Minnesota and spent most of her bedside nursing career on Medical-Surgical care units. Her clinical documentation experience began in 2007, covering CDI specialist training, education development, and physician engagement. She has served as a CDI Team Lead and consultant, working with senior leadership to incorporate CDI work into documentation compliance and quality metrics. Laura also has a BS degree in Biology (Winthrop University), with research experience in liver cancer and radiation-induced leukemia. She has presented at the state and national levels for the Association of Clinical Documentation Integrity Specialists (ACDIS) and has served as a co-lead for the Minnesota state chapter.
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