Drug Use, Abuse, Dependence and Associated Conditions Coding Course

Q: What does 'physical disorder' mean in the context of substance use coding?

In the context of substance use coding, 'physical disorder' refers to a condition that is not solely related to mental or behavioral issues but includes physical health problems stemming from substance use. Effective from October 1, 2018, this term was added to capture specific problems such as sexual dysfunction and sleep disorders, which are included in the codes but are not considered mental disorders. It does not imply that all conditions associated with substance use are classified as physical disorders.

Description

This course delves into the intricate world of accurately coding drug-related issues, encompassing drug use, abuse, dependence, and their associated complications. Students will gain valuable insights into the documentation, correct coding, and sequencing techniques essential for this specialized field. The course covers a range of vital topics, including an introduction to drug use, abuse, and dependence, complications stemming from drug-related issues, psychoactive drug use, code hierarchies, and the selection of principal diagnoses. With a focus on ICD-10-CM guidelines, this course equips learners with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of medical coding within the realm of substance abuse and dependence.

Included Lessons:

Drug Use, Abuse, and Dependence Introduction
Complications Associated with Drug Use, Abuse, or Dependence
Psychoactive Drug Use
Drug Use, Abuse, and Dependence Code Hierarchy
Some Associated Complications and Definitions
Principal Diagnosis Selection of Drug Use, Abuse, and Dependence
What Does "Physical" Disorder Refer To?
Remission vs Drug History and Other References
ICD-10-CM New/Revised Codes: Cannabis Dependence and Cannabis Use with Withdrawal
Substance Abuse Therapy
Summary

Key Takeaways

In-Depth Knowledge of Drug-Related Conditions: A thorough understanding of drug use, abuse, dependence, and associated conditions, including their distinct coding requirements and categories.
Documentation Expertise: The ability to decipher and work with healthcare provider documentation effectively, ensuring accurate code selection and sequencing.
ICD-10-CM Mastery: Proficiency in using ICD-10-CM codes and guidelines specifically related to substance use and dependence disorders.
Complications Recognition: The capability to identify and code complications associated with drug use, abuse, or dependence, such as delirium, perceptual disturbance, mood disorders, and withdrawal symptoms.
Principle Diagnosis Selection: The skill to appropriately select the principal diagnosis based on the circumstances of patient admission, whether it involves detoxification, rehabilitation, or treatment of a physical complaint related to substance use.
Understanding of Code Hierarchies: Knowledge of how to choose the most suitable code when there is documentation of multiple aspects of drug use, abuse, and dependence for the same substance.
Interpretation of "Physical" Disorder: A clear understanding of when the term "physical" disorder applies in the context of substance use, abuse, and dependence coding.
Differentiation Between Remission and Drug History: The ability to distinguish between coding for drug remission and drug history, especially in cases of nicotine dependence.
Substance Abuse Therapy Coding: Proficiency in coding detoxification and rehabilitation services, including the use of medications for withdrawal management.
Comprehensive Knowledge of Associated Complications: Familiarity with various complications, such as intoxication delirium, perceptual disturbance, drug-induced mood disorders, and drug-induced psychotic disorders, related to substance use and dependence.

What is the main difference between drug abuse and drug dependence in medical coding?

In medical coding, the key difference between drug abuse and drug dependence lies in the patient's relationship with the substance. Drug abuse refers to the inappropriate or harmful use of a substance, often characterized by risky behaviors but without a compulsive need for the substance. Drug dependence, on the other hand, indicates a physical or psychological dependency on the substance, with the patient experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using it. In ICD-10-CM, these conditions are coded separately, allowing for precise documentation and research.

What does "physical disorder" mean in the context of substance use coding?

In the context of substance use coding, "physical disorder" refers to a condition that is not solely related to mental or behavioral issues but includes physical health problems stemming from substance use. Effective from October 1, 2018, this term was added to capture specific problems such as sexual dysfunction and sleep disorders, which are included in the codes but are not considered mental disorders. It does not imply that all conditions associated with substance use are classified as physical disorders.

About our Medical Coding Courses

HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a comprehensive online education platform for medical coders. With a catalog of over 200 medical coding courses accepted by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and a selection approved by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), HIAlearn caters to both beginners and experienced medical coders seeking to enhance their skills. The platform provides an array of training plans tailored to meet individual learning needs, from mastering challenging coding procedures to understanding broad conceptual frameworks within the coding world. Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and are designed to cater to different coder levels and coding specialties such as inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI. Additionally, HIAlearn offers a Coding Updates bundle to ensure coders are up-to-date with the annual changes in ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS. Beyond individual learning, HIAlearn supports organizations with group discounts, promoting enhanced coding accuracy, efficiency, and compliance across teams.