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

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

Also known as:

Former SmokerEx-SmokerPast Smoker

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to History of Smoker

Z87.891Primary Range

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Used to document a patient's past nicotine dependence after cessation.

Nicotine dependence

Used for current nicotine dependence, including specific types and complications.

Tobacco use, nondependent

Used for nondependent tobacco use, such as social smoking.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
Z87.891Personal history of nicotine dependenceUse when a patient has a documented history of nicotine dependence but is no longer using tobacco.
  • Documented cessation date
  • History of pack-years
F17.210Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicatedUse for patients currently dependent on cigarettes.
  • Current use of cigarettes
  • Dependence criteria met

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 history of smoking

Essential facts and insights about History of Smoker

The ICD-10 code for a history of smoking is Z87.891, used to document a patient's past nicotine dependence after cessation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for history of smoker

Personal history of nicotine dependence
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Document cessation date and history of use.

Applicable To

  • Former smoker
  • History of nicotine dependence

Excludes

  • Current nicotine dependence (F17.2-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented cessation date
  • History of pack-years

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misuse for current smokers

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly states cessation and history details.

Ancillary Codes

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

Tobacco use, nondependent

Z72.0
Use for nondependent tobacco use, such as social smoking.

Differential Codes

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

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated

F17.210
Use F17.210 for current smokers with dependence.

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Z87.891
Use Z87.891 for former smokers.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting History of Smoker to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z87.891.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate patient history, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always ask for cessation date, Include in EHR templates

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F17.2- codes for current nicotine dependence.

Impact

Using history codes for current smokers.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on coding guidelines.

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

Documentation Templates for History of Smoker

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

Documenting a former smoker

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Cessation date
  • Pack-years history
  • Current tobacco use status

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Former smoker.
Good Documentation Example
Patient has a 20-pack-year history, quit smoking in 2020, no current tobacco use.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the smoking history and cessation.

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

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