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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF13.9

F13.9

Billable

Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic-related use, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 F13.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic-related use, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

F13.9 refers to the use of sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics that is unspecified, indicating a pattern of use that may lead to substance use disorders. This code encompasses a range of substances, including benzodiazepines and barbiturates, which are commonly prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. Patients may develop tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms, which can complicate treatment. The unspecified nature of this code suggests that the clinician has not documented the specific substance or the severity of the use disorder. Treatment may involve behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups. Clinicians must assess the patient's history and current use to provide appropriate care and document the specifics of the substance use to ensure accurate coding and billing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified nature of the code can lead to ambiguity in documentation.
  • Variety of substances that fall under this category complicates accurate coding.
  • Potential for co-occurring mental health disorders requires careful assessment.
  • Variability in withdrawal symptoms and treatment responses among patients.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of substance use history.
  • Failure to specify the substance used.
  • Lack of evidence for treatment plans or follow-up.
  • Misalignment between diagnosis and treatment codes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Addiction Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, substance use patterns, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with withdrawal symptoms or seeking treatment for substance use.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of co-occurring mental health disorders and comprehensive treatment approaches.

Psychiatry

Documentation Requirements

Thorough psychiatric evaluations and treatment progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with anxiety disorders using sedatives for self-medication.

Billing Considerations

Assessment of mental health status and potential for substance use disorders.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F13.9 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, F13
  • 9 should be used when there is evidence of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use without further specification
  • Coders should ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and reflects the patient's substance use history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F13.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

H0031CPT Code

Mental health assessment

Clinical Scenario

Used when assessing a patient for substance use disorders.

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment notes and treatment plans.

Specialty Considerations

Addiction specialists may require more detailed documentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of substance use disorders, including the ability to capture the nuances of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic-related use. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of substance use disorders, including the ability to capture the nuances of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic-related use. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of substance use disorders, including the ability to capture the nuances of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic-related use. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

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 should I document to support the use of F13.9?

Document the patient's substance use history, any withdrawal symptoms, treatment plans, and any co-occurring mental health conditions to support the use of F13.9.