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ICD-10 Coding for Cigarette Smoker(F17.210, Z87.891)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cigarette Smoker. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Tobacco UserNicotine Dependence

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Cigarette Smoker

F17.2Primary Range

Nicotine dependence

Primary range for coding nicotine dependence related to cigarette smoking.

Tobacco use, unspecified

Used when tobacco use is documented without dependence.

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Used for patients with a history of nicotine dependence who have quit smoking.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
F17.210Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicatedUse when there is documented nicotine dependence on cigarettes without complications.
  • Pack-year history
  • Withdrawal symptoms
  • Failed cessation attempts
Z87.891Personal history of nicotine dependenceUse for patients with a history of nicotine dependence who have quit smoking.
  • Documented cessation date
  • No current tobacco use

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for cigarette smoker

Essential facts and insights about Cigarette Smoker

The ICD-10 code for a cigarette smoker with nicotine dependence is F17.210.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cigarette smoker

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of nicotine dependence symptoms

Applicable To

  • Cigarette smoker
  • Nicotine addiction

Excludes

  • Tobacco use without dependence (Z72.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Pack-year history
  • Withdrawal symptoms
  • Failed cessation attempts

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as Z72.0 when dependence is present.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies type and frequency of tobacco use.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Tobacco abuse counseling

Z71.6
Use when counseling for tobacco cessation is provided.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Tobacco use, unspecified

Z72.0
Use when tobacco use is documented without evidence of dependence.

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated

F17.210
Use for current smokers with dependence.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cigarette Smoker to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F17.210.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate assessment of patient's health risks., Regulatory: Failure to meet documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates, Include specific details

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F17.210 for current smokers with dependence.

Impact

Using history codes for current smokers.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on coding guidelines.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Cigarette Smoker, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Cigarette Smoker

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cigarette Smoker. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Primary Care Visit for Smoker

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Tobacco use history
  • Current smoking status
  • Cessation attempts
  • Counseling provided

Example Documentation

Patient is a 40-year-old male with a 20 pack-year history, currently smoking 1 pack per day. Discussed cessation strategies and prescribed nicotine patch.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient smokes.
Good Documentation Example
Patient smokes 1 pack per day, has attempted to quit twice, and experiences withdrawal symptoms.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about smoking habits and cessation attempts, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cigarette Smoker? Ask your questions below.

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