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

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

Also known as:

Opioid DependenceNarcotic Addiction

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Chronic Narcotic Dependence

F11Primary Range

Opioid-related disorders

This range includes all opioid-related disorders, including dependence, abuse, and use.

Long-term (current) use of opiate analgesic

Used for patients on prescribed opioids without meeting dependence criteria.

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 the patient meets DSM-5 criteria for opioid dependence without complications.
  • Documented tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
  • DSM-5 criteria for opioid dependence
F11.21Opioid dependence, in remissionUse when the patient is in sustained remission from opioid dependence.
  • Documented sustained remission status
  • No relapse episodes for at least 12 months

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 chronic narcotic dependence

Essential facts and insights about Chronic Narcotic Dependence

The ICD-10 code for chronic narcotic dependence is F11.20, used for opioid dependence without complications.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for chronic narcotic dependence

Opioid dependence, uncomplicated
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient exhibits tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.

documentation Criteria

  • DSM-5 criteria for opioid dependence are documented.

Applicable To

  • Chronic opioid dependence without complications

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
  • DSM-5 criteria for opioid dependence

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if tolerance and withdrawal are not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure DSM-5 criteria are documented for dependence.

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 only if abuse criteria are met without dependence.

Opioid dependence, uncomplicated

F11.20
Use F11.20 if the patient is not in remission.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Chronic Narcotic 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: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured documentation templates., Regular training on DSM-5 criteria.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reimbursement issues., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F11.20 instead when dependence criteria are met.

Impact

Risk of incorrect coding if DSM-5 criteria are not documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all criteria are documented and reviewed.

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

Documentation Templates for Chronic Narcotic Dependence

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

Chronic opioid dependence with documented tolerance

Specialty: Addiction Medicine

Required Elements

  • DSM-5 criteria for dependence
  • Urine drug screen results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient exhibits tolerance (requires 150 MME for effect vs. 90 MME 6 months ago) and withdrawal symptoms (nausea, agitation) when attempting dose reduction. Urine screen confirms non-prescribed oxycodone use. F11.20 assigned per DSM-5 criteria.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient dependent on opioids.
Good Documentation Example
Patient meets 6/11 DSM-5 criteria for opioid dependence: tolerance (↑ MME 50% in 6mo), withdrawal (documented sweating/tachycardia on 2/2025 UDS), time spent obtaining opioids ≥4h/day.
Explanation
The good example provides specific DSM-5 criteria and clinical details, supporting the diagnosis.

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

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