Z79.4

Long term (current) use of insulin

Factors influencing health status and contact with health services Not Billable (Secondary Code)
Quick Reference
Patient with Type 2 diabetes using insulin long-term

Clinical Information

When to Use This Code

Patient with Type 2 diabetes using insulin long-term

Common Clinical Scenarios

  • Type 2 diabetic requiring insulin
  • Basal-bolus insulin regimen
  • Insulin pump therapy
  • Long-acting insulin with oral agents

Documentation Requirements

  • Document insulin regimen (type, dose, frequency)
  • Specify if basal only, basal-bolus, or insulin pump
  • Note reason for insulin use in Type 2 diabetes
  • Record glucose control and HbA1c

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Terms

These terms are included in this code:

Insulin therapyChronic insulin useLong-term insulin

Exclusion Terms

Do NOT use this code for:

  • Type 1 diabetes (all patients use insulin, no Z79.4 needed)
  • Short-term insulin use (hospitalization)

Coding Notes

Only use with Type 2 diabetes (E11.-), not Type 1
Type 1 diabetics always use insulin by definition
Important for HCC risk adjustment in Medicare Advantage

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Code Details

Code
Z79.4
Category
Factors influencing health status and contact with health services
Billable Status
Not Billable

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