ICD-10 Coding for Nicotine Dependence(F17.210, F17.220)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Nicotine Dependence. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Nicotine Dependence
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F17.210 | Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated | Use when the patient is actively dependent on cigarettes and meets DSM-5 criteria. |
|
| F17.220 | Nicotine dependence, chewing tobacco, uncomplicated | Use when the patient is dependent on chewing tobacco. |
|
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 nicotine dependence
Essential facts and insights about Nicotine Dependence
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for nicotine dependence
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient smokes ≥1 pack/day and has failed multiple quit attempts.
Applicable To
- Cigarette smoking
Excludes
- History of tobacco use (Z87.891)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- FTND score ≥4
- ≥100 cigarettes lifetime
- Withdrawal symptoms
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using Z87.891 for active dependence
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation supports the diagnosis with specific criteria such as FTND scores.
F17.220 - Nicotine dependence, chewing tobacco, uncomplicated
Use when the patient is dependent on chewing tobacco.
Applicable To
- Chewing tobacco use
Excludes
- History of tobacco use (Z87.891)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Behavioral criteria for dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms
Coding Notes
Document specific form of tobacco and dependence criteria.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Tobacco use counseling
Z71.6Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nicotine Dependence to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F17.210.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Specify current vs. historical smoking status, Quantify tobacco use
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records affecting treatment plans.
Mitigation Strategy
Use F17.210 for active dependence.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of dependence criteria.
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized assessment tools like FTND.
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 Nicotine Dependence, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Nicotine Dependence
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Nicotine Dependence. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Primary Care Visit for Nicotine Dependence
Specialty: Family MedicineRequired Elements
- Nicotine dependence status
- FTND score
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Counseling provided
- Quit plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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