Name an example of a health condition that contributes to higher risk scores.

Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant health condition that contributes to higher risk scores in risk adjustment models. This is primarily due to the complexity and severity associated with COPD, which often leads to higher healthcare utilization, including hospitalizations and emergency visits. COPD is considered a chronic illness that requires ongoing management and can lead to serious complications, impacting a patient's overall health status and risk profile.

In risk adjustment, medical conditions that are chronic, severe, and have the potential for significant healthcare costs are weighted more heavily. COPD fits these criteria, as it affects lung function and can severely limit a patient's ability to perform daily activities. The presence of such a condition in a patient’s health profile signals a greater need for healthcare resources, which is reflected in the risk score calculations used in value-based care models.