Is ICD-10-CM code H60 billable?

No, H60 (Otitis externa) 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 H60 belong to?

H60 belongs to Chapter 8 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: H60–H95 (Diseases of the Ear and Mastoid Process).

H60Not billable, use a more specific code below

Otitis externa

In Diseases of external ear (H60-H62), chapter 8: Diseases of the Ear and Mastoid Process

72 billable codes under H60: 4 are a CC; none map to an HCC.A CC or MCC (major CC) is a secondary diagnosis that raises the MS-DRG payment.

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.

There are no chapter-specific rules for Chapter 8 yet, so the general rules in Section I.B apply.

Read Section I.C.8 (page 49)

All codes under H60

H60 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

H60 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, all 72 billable codes under H60 group to MS-DRG 154, 155, or 156 (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 H60

Notes on these codes point to H60.

Z83.52 Includes: Conditions classifiable to H60-H83, H92-H95

About the condition

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

Ear Infections

Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their child to a doctor. Three out of four children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday. Adults can also get ear infections, but they are less common.

Code history

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