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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF10.21

F10.21

Billable

Alcohol dependence, in remission

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 F10.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of alcohol dependence, in remission.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Alcohol dependence, in remission, refers to a state where an individual has previously met the criteria for alcohol dependence but is currently not experiencing any symptoms or negative consequences associated with alcohol use. This condition is characterized by a history of problematic alcohol use that has led to significant impairment or distress, but the individual has successfully abstained from alcohol or significantly reduced their consumption for a sustained period. The remission can be classified as early or sustained, depending on the duration of abstinence. Clinically, it is important to monitor individuals in remission for potential relapse, as the risk remains elevated. Treatment programs often focus on maintaining sobriety through counseling, support groups, and sometimes pharmacotherapy. The diagnosis requires careful assessment of the individual's history and current status, ensuring that the criteria for remission are met, which includes the absence of withdrawal symptoms, cravings, or other indicators of alcohol use disorder.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between active dependence and remission
  • Understanding the duration of remission for accurate coding
  • Need for comprehensive patient history documentation
  • Potential overlap with other substance use disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of remission status
  • Failure to specify the duration of remission
  • Misclassification of active dependence vs. remission
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Addiction Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of alcohol use, treatment interventions, and current status of remission.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients transitioning from inpatient treatment to outpatient follow-up, individuals attending support groups.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the absence of symptoms and any ongoing treatment or support mechanisms.

Psychiatry

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive mental health evaluation, including substance use history and current mental status.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with co-occurring mental health disorders and alcohol dependence in remission.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of comorbid conditions that may affect treatment and remission status.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F10.21 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, F10
  • 21 should be used when the patient has a documented history of alcohol dependence but is currently in remission
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis, including the absence of withdrawal symptoms and a clear treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F10.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

H0001CPT Code

Alcohol and/or drug assessment

Clinical Scenario

Used during initial evaluation of a patient with a history of alcohol dependence.

Documentation Requirements

Document the assessment findings and treatment recommendations.

Specialty Considerations

Addiction specialists should ensure comprehensive evaluations are performed.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of alcohol use disorders, including the distinction between active dependence and remission, which aids in better tracking and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of alcohol use disorders, including the distinction between active dependence and remission, which aids in better tracking and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of alcohol use disorders, including the distinction between active dependence and remission, which aids in better tracking and treatment planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'in remission' mean in the context of alcohol dependence?

In remission means that the individual has previously met the criteria for alcohol dependence but is currently not experiencing any symptoms or negative consequences related to alcohol use.