From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
The ICD-10 codes for smoking cessation counseling are based on the time spent with the patient, with primary codes including Z71.6,99406, and 99407, and should be used in conjunction with F17.200 or other appropriate nicotine dependence codes, as supported by recent studies such as 1.
ICD-10 Codes for Smoking Cessation Counseling
The primary codes for smoking cessation counseling are:
- Z71.6 (Tobacco abuse counseling)
- 99406 (Smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling; 3-10 minutes)
- 99407 (Smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling; greater than 10 minutes) For minimal counseling under 3 minutes, the evaluation and management code for the visit should be used.
Documentation of Smoking Cessation Counseling
When documenting smoking cessation counseling, it is essential to specify:
- The exact time spent counseling the patient
- The methods discussed, such as:
- Behavioral strategies
- Pharmacotherapy options like nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, or varenicline
- The patient's readiness to quit
Nicotine Dependence Codes
These codes should be used in conjunction with F17.200 (Nicotine dependence, unspecified, uncomplicated) or other appropriate nicotine dependence codes that specify:
- Cigarettes (F17.21-)
- Chewing tobacco (F17.22-)
- Other tobacco products (F17.29-) The final digit in these codes indicates the patient's status:
- 0 for uncomplicated dependence
- 1 for dependence in remission
- 3 for dependence with withdrawal
- 9 for dependence with unspecified complications Accurate documentation of time and counseling content is essential for proper reimbursement and continuity of care, as highlighted in studies such as 2 and 3.