Which sequence correctly orders RAF values from highest to lowest for Sepsis, Lobar pneumonia, COPD?

Which sequence correctly orders RAF values from highest to lowest for Sepsis, Lobar pneumonia, COPD?

• A. Sepsis, COPD, Lobar pneumonia
• B. COPD, Sepsis, Lobar pneumonia
• C. Lobar pneumonia, Sepsis, COPD
• D. Sepsis, Lobar pneumonia, COPD

Answer: (D)

RAF values reflect the expected healthcare costs tied to a diagnosis; more severe acute illnesses with high resource use get higher weights. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that often requires intensive treatment and substantial resources, so it carries one of the highest weights. Lobar pneumonia, while serious and costly, typically involves fewer extreme resource needs than sepsis, placing it below sepsis. COPD is a chronic disease whose per-episode cost and risk are generally lower than the heavy, acute cost of sepsis and pneumonia, so its weight is lower still. Therefore, the sequence from highest to lowest is Sepsis, Lobar pneumonia, COPD.

RAF values reflect the expected healthcare costs tied to a diagnosis; more severe acute illnesses with high resource use get higher weights. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that often requires intensive treatment and substantial resources, so it carries one of the highest weights. Lobar pneumonia, while serious and costly, typically involves fewer extreme resource needs than sepsis, placing it below sepsis. COPD is a chronic disease whose per-episode cost and risk are generally lower than the heavy, acute cost of sepsis and pneumonia, so its weight is lower still. Therefore, the sequence from highest to lowest is Sepsis, Lobar pneumonia, COPD.