Is ICD-10-CM code R43 billable?

No, R43 (Disturbances of smell and taste) 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 R43 belong to?

R43 belongs to Chapter 18 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: R00–R99 (Symptoms, Signs and Abnormal Clinical and Laboratory Findings).

R43Not billable, use a more specific code below

Disturbances of smell and taste

In Symptoms and signs involving cognition, perception, emotional state and behavior (R40-R46), chapter 18: Symptoms, Signs and Abnormal Clinical and Laboratory Findings

5 billable codes under R43: none are a CC or MCC; none map to an HCC.

Instructional notes

Also applies, from Symptoms and signs involving cognition, perception, emotional state and behavior (R40-R46)

These notes sit on R40-R46 and apply to every code under it, including R43.

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

symptoms and signs constituting part of a pattern of mental disorder (F01-F99)

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 when to report symptom, sign, and abnormal finding codes (R00-R99), plus specific rules for falls, coma scales, non-infectious SIRS, death NOS, and NIHSS scores.

Use of symptom codes (page 75)
Use of a symptom code with a definitive diagnosis code (page 75)
Combination codes that include symptoms (page 75)
Repeated falls (page 76)
Coma (page 76)
Functional quadriplegia (page 76)
SIRS due to Non-Infectious Process (page 77)
Death NOS (page 77)

Read Section I.C.18 (page 75), 1 more topics

All codes under R43

R43 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

R43 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, all 5 billable codes under R43 group to MS-DRG 091, 092, or 093 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

About the condition

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

Taste and Smell Disorders

Our senses of taste and smell give us great pleasure. Taste helps us enjoy food and beverages. Smell lets us enjoy the scents and fragrances like roses or coffee. Taste and smell also protect us, letting us know when food has gone bad or when there is a gas leak. They make us want to eat, ensuring we get the nutrition we need.

Code history

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