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ICD-10 Coding for Opiate Dependence(F11.20, F11.21)

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

Also known as:

Opioid DependenceNarcotic Dependence

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Opiate Dependence

F11.1-F11.9Primary Range

Mental and behavioral disorders due to use of opioids

This range covers all ICD-10 codes related to opioid use disorders, including dependence, abuse, and use.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
F11.20Opioid dependence, uncomplicatedUse when a patient meets criteria for opioid dependence without complications.
  • Documented DSM-5 criteria for opioid use disorder
  • Positive urine drug screen for opioids
F11.21Opioid dependence, in remissionUse when a patient is in remission from opioid dependence.
  • Explicit documentation of remission status
  • No current opioid 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 opiate dependence

Essential facts and insights about Opiate Dependence

The ICD-10 code for opiate dependence is F11.20 for uncomplicated cases and F11.21 for remission.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for opiate dependence

Opioid dependence, uncomplicated
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient meets DSM-5 criteria for opioid use disorder.

Applicable To

  • Opioid dependence without complications

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented DSM-5 criteria for opioid use disorder
  • Positive urine drug screen for opioids

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding for abuse or use when dependence criteria are met

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports the diagnosis of dependence, not just use or abuse.

Ancillary Codes

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

Long-term (current) use of opiate analgesic

Z79.891
Use for patients on prescribed opioids without dependence.

Differential Codes

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

Opioid abuse, uncomplicated

F11.10
Use when patient does not meet full criteria for dependence.

Opioid dependence, uncomplicated

F11.20
Use F11.20 if the patient is actively using opioids.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Opiate Dependence to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F11.20.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terms like 'opioid dependence'., Document DSM-5 criteria.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and statistics.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F11.21 with documentation of remission status.

Impact

Failure to document remission can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure clear documentation of remission status.

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 Opiate Dependence, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Opiate Dependence

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

MAT Clinic Visit

Specialty: Addiction Medicine

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • DSM-5 criteria
  • Current use status
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

45yo male presents for MAT initiation. DSM-5 criteria met for severe opioid use disorder: daily heroin use x 2 years, failed quit attempts, withdrawal symptoms (vomiting, tremors), continued use despite job loss. Urine screen positive for opioids. COWS score 12. No comorbid mental health conditions.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient needs help with opioid problem.
Good Documentation Example
55yo F with severe opioid use disorder per DSM-5 (tolerance, withdrawal). Last IV heroin use 48h ago. COWS 14. Starting buprenorphine 8mg SL daily.
Explanation
The good example provides specific DSM-5 criteria and a clear treatment plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Opiate Dependence? Ask your questions below.

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