Drug Abuse vs. Drug Dependence

[Luna]

It is important when selecting codes related to drug use that you determine if the patient is abusing the drug or dependent on the drug.

So, what kind of terminology might you find in a patient's record that would indicate abuse vs. dependence?

 

[Luna]

Bleh. Took my module test today and wouldn't you know there was a question on the test regarding this subject. I did not discern correctly whether the patient was just drug dependent or abusing the drug. However, the results to test provided some rationale that I think will help me. Live and learn.

 

[Christine Relitz]

http://www.buppractice.com/howto/screen/criteria

 

[Luna]

Thank you Christine. That is a helpful link.

 

[Luna]

Laureen,
Thank you for addressing this in March webinar.

 

[Ruth Sheets]

Yes, Laureen covered this in the March 2013 Q&A Webinar. You may view the replay of this video, as well as all the replays from the past, read the transcripts and answer sheets when you join the CCO Club. For more information, click here.

Laureen laid out the criteria for determining Drug Abuse and Drug Dependence based on this publication: American Psychiatric Association. 1994. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV. Washington D.C.: American Psychiatric Association. (pp. 181-183) Check this link.

 

[crank]

Hello Luna,
If a patient selects the code for drug, then it is drug dependence. Drug dependence occurs, when an individual as built up a tolerance for a particular drug or drugs.

It is important when selecting codes related to drug use that you determine if the patient is abusing the drug or dependent on the drug.

So, what kind of terminology might you find in a patient's record that would indicate abuse vs. dependence?