F10.920

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A person uses alcohol in an unspecified pattern and is currently intoxicated without severe complications like delirium.

Coding Tips

• •This code indicates acute intoxication without delirium or perceptual disturbances
• •Verify documentation does not indicate delirium or hallucinations, which would require F10.921 or F10.929

Clinical Significance

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

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of alcohol use — query the provider to specify abuse or dependence for more accurate coding when possible
• ✓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