ICD-10 Coding for Former Smoking(Z87.891)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Former Smoking. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Former Smoking
Z87.891Primary Range
Personal history of nicotine dependence
This code is used to document patients with a history of nicotine dependence who have been abstinent for 12 months or more.
Tobacco use, not otherwise specified
This code is used for current tobacco use without a history of dependence.
Nicotine dependence, in remission
This code is used for current nicotine dependence with complications.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for former smoking
Essential facts and insights about Former Smoking
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for former smoking
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient has been abstinent from nicotine for 12 months or more.
coding Criteria
- Do not use with F17 codes.
Applicable To
- History of nicotine dependence
Excludes
- Current nicotine dependence (F17.2-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented history of nicotine dependence
- Abstinence for 12 months or more
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding current use as history
- Combining with F17 codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the duration of abstinence and previous dependence.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Tobacco use, not otherwise specified
Z72.0Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Former Smoking to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z87.891.
Impact
Clinical: May affect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use structured EHR fields for smoking history., Regularly update patient records.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use Z87.891 for patients with a history of dependence who are now abstinent.
Impact
Using Z72.0 instead of Z87.891 for former smokers.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate staff on correct code usage and documentation requirements.
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 Former Smoking, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Former Smoking
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Former Smoking. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Documenting a former smoker in remission
Specialty: Primary CareRequired Elements
- Patient's smoking history
- Date of cessation
- Duration of abstinence
- Any current tobacco use
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Former Smoking? Ask your questions below.