Diagnosis coding corner: Follow AHA Coding Clinic’s advice for marijuana, prescription opioid use

Why This Topic Matters

Substance-use documentation can affect diagnosis coding, quality reporting, and compliance. This article helps readers understand the scope of official guidance so they can evaluate whether a documented patient history supports a reportable diagnosis.

Article Sections

1. Marijuana documentation and coding guidance

   Discusses questions raised by documentation of marijuana use and the general circumstances under which coding guidance addresses psychoactive substance use. It also references official guidance sources and documentation expectations.

2. Prescription opioid use and coding guidance

   Addresses documentation involving prescription opioid use for chronic pain and the broader question of when psychoactive substance-related coding is considered. It summarizes the article’s focus on provider documentation and official guidance.