ICD-10 Coding for History of Tobacco Use(Z87.891, F17.218)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for History of Tobacco Use. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to History of Tobacco Use
Z87.891Primary Range
Personal history of nicotine dependence
Used for patients with a documented history of nicotine dependence who are no longer using tobacco products.
Nicotine dependence
Used for current nicotine dependence, specifying the type of tobacco product and any complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z87.891 | Personal history of nicotine dependence | Use when the patient has a history of nicotine dependence but is no longer using tobacco products. |
|
| F17.218 | Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, with other nicotine-induced disorders | Use for current smokers with nicotine dependence and related disorders. |
|
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 tobacco use
Essential facts and insights about History of Tobacco Use
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for history of tobacco use
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient has not used tobacco products for at least 6 months.
documentation Criteria
- Cessation date and confirmation of no current use are documented.
Applicable To
- Former smoker
- History of nicotine dependence
Excludes
- Current nicotine dependence (F17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented cessation date
- Verification of no current tobacco use
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using for current smokers
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation clearly states the cessation date and confirms no current use.
F17.218 - Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, with other nicotine-induced disorders
Use for current smokers with nicotine dependence and related disorders.
Applicable To
- Current smoker with complications
Excludes
- History of nicotine dependence (Z87.891)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Current use of cigarettes
- Presence of nicotine-induced disorders
Coding Notes
Document the type of tobacco product and any complications.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Tobacco use counseling
Z71.6Differential 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 History of Tobacco Use 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 assessment of patient's smoking status., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document cessation date in patient records., Verify cessation status during each visit.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use F17 codes for current nicotine dependence.
Impact
Using Z87.891 for current smokers.
Mitigation Strategy
Review patient history and confirm cessation before coding.
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 Tobacco Use, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for History of Tobacco Use
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for History of Tobacco Use. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with history of smoking
Specialty: General PracticeRequired Elements
- Cessation date
- Confirmation of no current use
- Pack-year history
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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