I16
Non-Billable

Hypertensive crisis

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Hypertensive crisis?

ICD-10-CM I16 is the diagnosis code for Hypertensive crisis. This code falls under the section "Hypertensive diseases" within Chapter 9 — Diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.

Coding Guidelines for I16

Always refer to the official ICD-10-CM Tabular List for complete coding guidelines. Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code selected. When in doubt, consult a certified medical coder or the latest CMS guidelines.

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where I16 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Current CodeI16 — Hypertensive crisis
Sub-Codes (3)
Sub-Codes 3 entries
I16.0Hypertensive urgencyBillableI16.1Hypertensive emergencyBillableI16.9Hypertensive crisis, unspecifiedBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is I16 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, I16 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does I16 mean?

I16 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Hypertensive crisis". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What section is I16 in?

I16 is located in Section I10-I1A — "Hypertensive diseases" within Chapter 9 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of I16?

I16 has 3 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: I16.0, I16.1, I16.9.

When should I use I16?

Use I16 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Hypertensive crisis" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.

People Also Ask

What is the ICD-10 code for Hypertensive crisis?

The ICD-10-CM code for Hypertensive crisis is I16.

Can I16 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, I16 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is I16 in?

I16 is in Chapter 9 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is I16 valid for 2026?

Yes, I16 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousI15.9Secondary hypertension, unspecifiedNext →I16.0Hypertensive urgency
Code Details
I16
Hypertensive crisis
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
9 — Diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99)
I10-I1A — Hypertensive diseases
2026 ICD-10-CM