F10.220

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A person who is dependent on alcohol and is currently intoxicated (under the influence of alcohol) without severe complications like seizures or delirium.

Coding Tips

• •Document the patient's blood alcohol level or clinical signs of intoxication to support this code
• •Distinguish from F10.221 (with perceptual disturbances) or F10.229 (with unspecified complications)

Clinical Significance

This code captures alcohol dependence with uncomplicated intoxication, documenting an acute episode of alcohol intoxication in a patient with an established pattern of alcohol dependence. Accurate coding of the use level (dependence) and intoxication status is critical for tracking substance use severity and ensuring appropriate risk adjustment.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of alcohol dependence with at least three of: tolerance, withdrawal, use in larger amounts/longer periods than intended, persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down, significant time spent obtaining/using/recovering, important activities given up, continued use despite knowledge of physical/psychological problems
• ✓Documentation of acute intoxication at the time of the encounter, with clinical findings (e.g., blood alcohol level, slurred speech, impaired coordination)
• ✓Assessment and plan addressing alcohol use disorder with treatment recommendations (counseling, medication-assisted treatment, referral, etc.)

Commonly Confused Codes