ICD-10 E66.9

E66.9 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code used for "Obesity, unspecified." It is part of the chapter on endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases (E00-E89), specifically within the category of disorders of lipoprotein metabolism and other lipidemias (E78).

This code is used when a patient is diagnosed with obesity, but the specific type or underlying cause is not detailed. This generic code is often used when more detailed information on the patient’s obesity condition is not available during the clinical assessment.

E66.9 should be utilized when the medical documentation confirms the presence of obesity without further specification. It allows for the general classification of obesity in the absence of more detailed diagnostic information.

Documentation should clearly reflect the diagnosis of obesity. Providers are encouraged to document any relevant clinical findings that support the diagnosis, such as BMI measurements or related health conditions.

The coding for obesity is determined by the provider's diagnosis of the condition, rather than any specific BMI value. There is no specific coding rule that determines which BMI values define obesity.

When code E66.9 has been diagnosed by the provider, an additional code to identify body mass index (BMI) (Z68.-) should be assigned if known.

The ICD-10-CM code E66.9 is used for documenting cases of unspecified obesity, aiding healthcare providers in the management of patients whose specific type of obesity isn’t detailed. Correct application of this code ensures appropriate treatment planning and billing, enhancing care delivery.