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ICD-10 Coding for Chronic Smoker(F17.210, Z87.891)

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

Also known as:

Tobacco Use DisorderNicotine Dependence

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Chronic Smoker

F17.2Primary Range

Nicotine dependence

Primary code range for documenting nicotine dependence and its complications.

Tobacco use, not otherwise specified

Used for non-dependent tobacco use, such as social smoking.

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Used for documenting a history of nicotine dependence after cessation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
F17.210Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicatedUse when documenting active cigarette smoking without complications.
  • Patient reports smoking 1 pack per day
  • Physical examination shows tar-stained fingers
Z87.891Personal history of nicotine dependenceUse for patients with a history of smoking who have quit.
  • Patient has not smoked in over 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 smoker

Essential facts and insights about Chronic Smoker

The ICD-10 code for a chronic smoker with nicotine dependence is F17.210, while Z87.891 is used for a history of smoking.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for chronic smoker

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Active smoking status confirmed by patient report

Applicable To

  • Cigarette smoking

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Patient reports smoking 1 pack per day
  • Physical examination shows tar-stained fingers

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using for past smokers

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies active smoking status.

Differential Codes

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

Tobacco use, not otherwise specified

Z72.0
Use Z72.0 for non-dependent tobacco use.

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated

F17.210
Use F17.210 for current smokers.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Chronic Smoker to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F17.210.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Fails to meet documentation standards., Financial: Could result in claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates, Train staff on documentation standards

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 coding rules., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F17.2 for current dependence and Z87.891 for history only.

Impact

Using Z87.891 for current smokers

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training and audits of coding practices

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

Documentation Templates for Chronic Smoker

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

Chronic smoker with COPD

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • Smoking history
  • Current smoking status
  • Impact on lung function

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient smokes.
Good Documentation Example
Patient smokes 1.5 PPD for 20 years, diagnosed with COPD. Advised cessation.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on smoking history and its impact.

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

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