ICD-10 Coding for Tobacco Use(F17.210, Z72.0, Z87.891)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Tobacco Use. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Tobacco Use
F17Primary Range
Nicotine dependence
This range covers all forms of nicotine dependence, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and other tobacco products.
Personal history of nicotine dependence
This code is used for patients with a history of nicotine dependence who are no longer using tobacco.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F17.210 | Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated | Use when there is documented cigarette use with signs of dependence. |
|
| Z72.0 | Tobacco use, current | Use when the patient uses tobacco but does not meet criteria for dependence. |
|
| Z87.891 | Personal history of nicotine dependence | Use for patients with a resolved history of nicotine 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 tobacco use
Essential facts and insights about Tobacco Use
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for tobacco use
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient meets DSM-5 criteria for nicotine dependence.
documentation Criteria
- Detailed smoking history and dependence symptoms are documented.
Applicable To
- Cigarette smoking
Excludes
- Tobacco use without dependence (Z72.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient reports smoking ≥1 cigarette per day
- Documented withdrawal symptoms or failed quit attempts
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as Z72.0 when dependence is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the type of tobacco product and frequency of use.
Z72.0 - Tobacco use, current
Use when the patient uses tobacco but does not meet criteria for dependence.
Applicable To
- Current tobacco use without dependence
Excludes
- Nicotine dependence (F17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient reports current use of tobacco products without dependence symptoms
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation clarifies the absence of dependence.
Z87.891 - Personal history of nicotine dependence
Use for patients with a resolved history of nicotine dependence.
Applicable To
- Former smoker
Excludes
- Current nicotine dependence (F17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented history of nicotine dependence, now resolved
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies cessation and past dependence.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Tobacco abuse counseling
Z71.6Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Tobacco Use to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F17.210.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate patient assessment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like '1 PPD cigarette use', Avoid terms like 'smoker' without details
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure DSM-5 criteria for dependence are documented
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment for services, Compliance: Misrepresentation of patient condition, Data Quality: Misleading health data
Mitigation Strategy
Use F17 codes when dependence is present
Impact
Inadequate documentation of tobacco use and dependence
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of type, frequency, and dependence symptoms
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 Tobacco Use, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Tobacco Use
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Tobacco Use. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Smoking Cessation Counseling
Specialty: Primary CareRequired Elements
- Patient's smoking history
- Readiness to quit
- Counseling time
- Cessation plan
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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