Opioid dependence, in remission

This code signifies a patient's historical diagnosis of opioid dependence where the individual has not used opioids for at least 12 months, or for a period less than 12 months if they are in a controlled environment (e.g., therapeutic community). It indicates a period of sustained sobriety following a previous diagnosis of opioid use disorder.

Apply this code when a clinician documents a history of opioid dependence and explicitly states the patient is "in remission" or has achieved a sustained period of abstinence from opioid use. This is often used in follow-up appointments for patients who have completed treatment programs or are actively engaged in recovery efforts.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "in remission" and not just "abstinent" without further context.
• Do not use this code if the patient is currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms or active opioid use.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for any ongoing treatment, such as Z79.891 (Long-term (current) use of opioid analgesic) if the patient is on medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.