Is ICD-10-CM code E56 billable?

No, E56 (Other vitamin deficiencies) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM code. It must be coded to a more specific subcategory before it can be used for reimbursement.

What chapter does ICD-10-CM code E56 belong to?

E56 belongs to Chapter 4 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: E00–E89 (Endocrine, Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases).

E56Not billable, use a more specific code below

Other vitamin deficiencies

In Other nutritional deficiencies (E50-E64), chapter 4: Endocrine, Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases

4 billable codes under E56: none are a CC or MCC; none map to an HCC.

Instructional notes

Excludes1: not coded here, use a different code

sequelae of other vitamin deficiencies (E64.8)

Also applies, from Other nutritional deficiencies (E50-E64)

These notes sit on E50-E64 and apply to every code under it, including E56.

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

nutritional anemias (D50-D53)

Official coding guidelines

From the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, FY 2027 (CMS and NCHS). Links open the PDF at the right page.

Covers diabetes mellitus coding, including type, insulin and drug use, pump malfunction and secondary diabetes, plus obesity and obesity class codes.

Diabetes mellitus (page 39)
Obesity (page 42)

Read Section I.C.4 (page 39)

All codes under E56

E56 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

E56 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, all 4 billable codes under E56 group to MS-DRG 640 or 641 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

Other codes that refer to E56

Notes on these codes point to E56.

G99.8 Code First: avitaminosis (E56.-)
T45.2X6 Excludes1: vitamin deficiencies (E50-E56)

About the condition

Plain-language background from MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine), not coding guidance.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition means that your body isn't getting enough calories or the right balance of nutrients to stay healthy. This can happen if you don't get enough protein, carbohydrates, and fats, eat too much unhealthy food, or don't get the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

Vitamins

Vitamins are substances that your body needs to grow and develop normally. There are 13 vitamins your body needs. They are: You can usually get all your vitamins from the foods you eat. Your body can also make vitamins D and K. People who eat a vegetarian diet may need to take a vitamin B12 supplement.

Code history

Valid since FY2016, when ICD-10-CM took effect on October 1, 2015. No changes since.