ICD-10 Coding for Benzodiazepine Use Disorder(F13.20, F13.23)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Benzodiazepine Use Disorder. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Benzodiazepine Use Disorder
F13.20-F13.29Primary Range
Sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic dependence
This range covers the primary codes for benzodiazepine dependence, including uncomplicated cases and those with withdrawal or other complications.
Long-term (current) use of benzodiazepines
Used to indicate long-term therapeutic use of benzodiazepines without abuse or 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| F13.20 | Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic dependence, uncomplicated | Use when the patient meets criteria for dependence without complications. |
|
| F13.23 | Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic withdrawal | Use when withdrawal symptoms are present following cessation or reduction. |
|
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 benzodiazepine dependence
Essential facts and insights about Benzodiazepine Use Disorder
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for benzo use
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient meets DSM-5 criteria for substance dependence.
documentation Criteria
- Detailed history of benzodiazepine use and dependence symptoms.
Applicable To
- Benzodiazepine dependence
Excludes
- Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic abuse (F13.10)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented DSM-5 criteria for dependence
- SDS score ≥6
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as abuse when dependence criteria are met
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies dependence criteria and excludes abuse.
F13.23 - Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic withdrawal
Use when withdrawal symptoms are present following cessation or reduction.
Applicable To
- Benzodiazepine withdrawal
Excludes
- Withdrawal from other substances
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of withdrawal symptoms
- Recent cessation or reduction in benzodiazepine use
Coding Notes
Document specific withdrawal symptoms and timeline.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Long-term (current) use of benzodiazepines
Z79.891Differential 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 Benzodiazepine Use Disorder to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F13.20.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific drug names., Document DSM-5 criteria.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure DSM-5 criteria for dependence are documented and use F13.20.
Impact
Using abuse codes for dependence cases.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on DSM-5 criteria and proper code selection.
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 Benzodiazepine Use Disorder, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Benzodiazepine Use Disorder
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Benzodiazepine Use Disorder. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with benzodiazepine dependence
Specialty: PsychiatryRequired Elements
- Substance name
- Dependence criteria
- SDS score
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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