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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF17.220

F17.220

Billable

Nicotine dependence, chewing tobacco, uncomplicated

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

Code Description

ICD-10 F17.220 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nicotine dependence, chewing tobacco, uncomplicated.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Nicotine dependence, specifically related to the use of chewing tobacco, is classified as an uncomplicated condition under ICD-10 code F17.220. This diagnosis is characterized by a compulsive need to use chewing tobacco, leading to significant impairment or distress. Individuals with this dependence may experience cravings, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to reduce or quit use. The condition is often associated with various health risks, including oral cancers, periodontal disease, and cardiovascular issues. Treatment typically involves behavioral therapies, counseling, and pharmacotherapy options such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or prescription medications like varenicline or bupropion. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for effective treatment planning and insurance reimbursement, as well as for tracking public health trends related to tobacco use.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of nicotine dependence (e.g., smoking vs. chewing tobacco)
  • Understanding the nuances of uncomplicated vs. complicated nicotine dependence
  • Documenting withdrawal symptoms accurately
  • Identifying co-occurring substance use disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of nicotine dependence severity
  • Failure to document treatment plans or progress
  • Misclassification of nicotine dependence type
  • Omitting withdrawal symptoms when applicable

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of patient history, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with oral health issues, seeking help to quit chewing tobacco, or experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of co-occurring mental health issues or other substance use disorders.

Dentistry

Documentation Requirements

Detailed records of oral examinations, treatment of tobacco-related conditions, and patient education on cessation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with periodontal disease or oral lesions related to chewing tobacco use.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of the impact of tobacco use on oral health and treatment recommendations.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F17.220 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, F17
  • 220 should be used when the patient exhibits nicotine dependence without withdrawal symptoms
  • It is important to document the patient's tobacco use history and any treatment interventions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F17.220 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99406CPT Code

Smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling visit, intermediate

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with chewing tobacco dependence seeks counseling for cessation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the duration of counseling and the patient's progress.

Specialty Considerations

Primary care providers should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's tobacco use history.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nicotine dependence, enabling better tracking of tobacco use trends and treatment outcomes. F17.220 provides a clear distinction for uncomplicated cases, which aids in appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nicotine dependence, enabling better tracking of tobacco use trends and treatment outcomes. F17.220 provides a clear distinction for uncomplicated cases, which aids in appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Smoking & Tobacco Use

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between F17.220 and F17.221?

F17.220 is used for uncomplicated nicotine dependence, while F17.221 is for cases where the patient experiences withdrawal symptoms. Accurate documentation of symptoms is crucial for correct coding.