Lung Cancer Screening & ICD-10 Codes: Complete 2025 Reference | Best Writes Links

Lung Cancer Screening & ICD-10 Codes: Complete 2025 Reference

Lung cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to detect lung cancer early, when it’s easier to treat and outcomes are more positive. For healthcare providers, accurate ICD-10 coding is essential to ensure proper billing, documentation, and insurance coverage.

This 2025 complete reference guide from Best Writes Links provides the latest ICD-10 codes, eligibility guidelines, and documentation tips for smooth and accurate billing.

💡 What Is Lung Cancer Screening?

Lung cancer screening is a preventive test using Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) to look for signs of lung cancer before symptoms appear. The scan takes only a few minutes and uses low radiation to create detailed images of the lungs.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual LDCT screening for individuals who:

• Are 50 to 80 years old

• Have a 20-pack-year or greater smoking history..

• Currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years

This screening helps find lung cancer early — before it spreads — and saves thousands of lives each year.

🧠 Why ICD-10 Coding Matters in 2025

Accurate ICD-10 coding ensures:

• Proper insurance reimbursement

• Clear documentation for medical records

• Compliance with national screening guidelines

• Accurate data tracking for preventive care programs

Incorrect coding can result in denied claims, billing delays, or audit risks. With 2025 updates, it’s vital to use the correct ICD-10 codes for each part of the screening process.

🩺 Primary ICD-10 Code for Lung Cancer Screening

The main ICD-10 diagnosis code for preventive lung cancer screening is:

➡️ Z12.2 — Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of respiratory organs

✅ Use Z12.2 when:

• The LDCT scan is done for preventive purposes.

• The patient meets the USPSTF cr. iteria

• There are no current signs or symptoms of lung disease.

Example:

A 62-year-old former smoker receives a preventive LDCT scan for lung cancer.
ICD-10 Code: Z12.2

This code identifies that the screening is for early detection — not diagnosis.

⚕️ Supporting ICD-10 Codes for Smoking History

To show medical necessity, a smoking history code should always accompany Z12.2. These supporting codes strengthen claim approval and clarify eligibility. Standard supporting ICD-10 codes include:

• F17.210 — Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated

• F17.211 — Nicotine dependence, in remission

• Z87.891 — Personal history of nicotine dependence

Example (Complete coding):

• Z12.2 — Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of respiratory organs

• Z87.891 — Personal history of nicotine dependence

Together, these codes confirm preventive intent and patient eligibility.

💼 Procedure & Billing Codes

In addition to ICD-10 diagnosis codes, use the correct HCPCS procedure code for billing:

➡️ G0297 — Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer screening

Billing Example:

• ICD-10 Codes: Z12.2 + Z87.891

• HCPCS Code: G0297

This combination is required by Medicare and most private insurers for preventive coverage.

Documentation should include:

• Patient’s age and smoking history

• Statement confirming preventive LDCT screening

• Provider’s recommendation or order

🩹 ICD-10 Codes for Abnormal Findings

If the LDCT scan reveals abnormal results, use additional ICD-10 codes to describe findings:

• R91.1 — Solitary pulmonary nodule

• R91.8 — Other nonspecific abnormal findings of the lung field

If lung cancer is diagnosed, apply codes from the C34.x series, such as:

• C34.10 — Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, unspecified bronchus or lung

• C34.30 — Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, unspecified bronchus or lung

⚠️ Common Coding Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using diagnostic codes (C34.x) during preventive screening visits
❌ Forgetting to include smoking history codes (Z87.891 or F17.210)
❌ Failing to link Z12.2 with procedure code G0297
❌ Missing documentation on patient eligibility and smoking history

Avoiding these errors helps ensure clean claims and timely payments.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Accurate ICD-10 coding for lung cancer screening ensures that preventive care services are appropriately documented, billed, and reimbursed. Always use Z12.2 for screening encounters and include smoking history codes like F17.210 or Z87.891 for full compliance.

With the 2025 ICD-10 updates, healthcare professionals must stay informed to prevent billing denials and promote early detection.

At Best Writes Links, we simplify complex medical coding by providing precise, reliable, and up-to-date information for clinics and billing experts.