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See a sample rate comparisonMS-DRG 549 Fee Schedule
Last Verified: September 2026
Healthcare providers use this code to document and receive reimbursement for visits that address high-level medical decision-making, often including multiple diagnoses or prescription management.
SEPTIC ARTHRITIS WITH CC
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Type | Diseases & Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System & Connective Tissue |
| Common Place of Service | 21 - Inpatient Hospital 22 - On Campus Outpatient Hospital |
| Complexity Level | High |
National average reimbursement for MS-DRG 549 by major payers:
$14,865.09
$16,938.07
$19,009.80
$19,415.25
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MS-DRG 549
5 of 25 sample ratesHigher to lower in this preview
Winkler County Hospital District, Winkler County Memorial Hospital
$36,743.05Published rateSentara Hospitals, Sentara Leigh Hospital
Sentara Hospitals
$26,366.38Published rateBronson Battle Creek Hospital
$18,842.93Published rateVhs Rehabilitation Institute Of Michigan Inc, Rehabilitation Institute Of Michigan
$13,063.28Published rateWebster Health Services, Inc., Webster General Hospital Swing Bed
Webster Health Services Inc
$1,688.00Published rate
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Payer Contract Negotiation
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See a sample payer proposalMS-DRG 549 vs. Other Diseases & Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System & Connective Tissue Codes
The MS-DRG 549 code is part of the Diseases & Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System & Connective Tissue services . It represents a moderate-complexity encounter and is one of several codes that vary based on time spent, level of medical decision-making, and documentation requirements.
The MS-DRG 549 code involves more provider time and moderate medical decision-making, unlike lower-level codes that require less time and simpler assessments. It typically includes multiple diagnoses, medication management, or test interpretation, leading to higher reimbursement and more detailed documentation requirements.
| Code | Complexity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 548-APR-DRG | High | POSTPARTUM & POST ABORTION DIAGNOSIS W O.R. PROCEDURE |
| 548-MS-DRG | High | SEPTIC ARTHRITIS WITH MCC |
| 549-MS-DRG | High | SEPTIC ARTHRITIS WITH CC |
| 550-MS-DRG | High | SEPTIC ARTHRITIS WITHOUT CC/MCC |
What is a fee schedule?
A fee schedule is a list of fixed prices that healthcare providers charge for specific services, including MS-DRG 549. These prices vary depending on payer type (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), geographic location, and provider contracts.
Understanding the 549 fee schedule helps patients estimate costs and providers optimize billing for accurate reimbursements.
Factors that affect fee schedules
Medicare & Medicaid Rates
Government-set reimbursement amounts
Private Insurance Rates
Negotiated rates between providers and insurance companies
Geographic Location
Costs may be higher in urban areas.
Provider Type
Hospital providers may have different rates than private practice.
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