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ICD-10 Coding for Smoking and Nicotine Dependence(F17.210, Z72.0)

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

Also known as:

Tobacco UseNicotine AddictionSmoking Habit

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Smoking and Nicotine Dependence

F17Primary Range

Mental and behavioral disorders due to use of tobacco

This range covers nicotine dependence, including specific types and complications.

Tobacco use, current

Used for documenting current tobacco use without dependence.

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Used for documenting a history of nicotine dependence.

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 there is documented dependence on cigarettes.
  • Documented cravings or withdrawal symptoms
  • Failed quit attempts
Z72.0Tobacco use, currentUse when documenting tobacco use without dependence.
  • Documented use of tobacco products without dependence

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 smoking

Essential facts and insights about Smoking and Nicotine Dependence

The ICD-10 code for smoking without dependence is Z72.0, while nicotine dependence is coded as F17.210 for cigarettes.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for smoking

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of withdrawal symptoms or cravings

Applicable To

  • Cigarette smoking with dependence

Excludes

  • Tobacco use without dependence (Z72.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented cravings or withdrawal symptoms
  • Failed quit attempts

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if dependence criteria are not met

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports dependence criteria.

Ancillary Codes

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

Tobacco use counseling

Z71.6
Use for visits focused on smoking cessation counseling.

Differential Codes

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

Tobacco use, current

Z72.0
Use when there is tobacco use without dependence.

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated

F17.210
Use when there is documented dependence on cigarettes.

Documentation & Coding Risks

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

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terms like '1 pack/day smoker', Document any cessation attempts

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if codes are used incorrectly., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding rules., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and statistics.

Mitigation Strategy

Choose one based on whether dependence is documented.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of smoking status and dependence

Mitigation Strategy

Implement detailed documentation templates and regular audits

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 Smoking and Nicotine Dependence, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Smoking and Nicotine Dependence

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

Smoking cessation visit

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Smoking status
  • Type of tobacco product
  • Frequency of use
  • Readiness to quit
  • Interventions provided

Example Documentation

Patient is a current smoker of 1 pack/day. Reports cravings and has attempted to quit twice. Counseling provided for 15 minutes, patient advised to set a quit date.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient smokes.
Good Documentation Example
Patient smokes 1 pack/day, experiences cravings, and has failed two quit attempts. Counseling provided.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about smoking habits and interventions.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Smoking and Nicotine Dependence? Ask your questions below.

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