P91.81
Non-Billable

Neonatal encephalopathy

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Neonatal encephalopathy?

ICD-10-CM P91.81 is the diagnosis code for Neonatal encephalopathy. This code falls under the section "Other disorders originating in the perinatal period" within Chapter 16 — Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period (P00-P96). 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 P91.81

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 P91.81 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Sub-Codes 2 entries
P91.811Neonatal encephalopathy in diseases classified elsewhereBillableP91.819Neonatal encephalopathy, unspecifiedBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is P91.81 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, P91.81 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does P91.81 mean?

P91.81 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Neonatal encephalopathy". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What is the parent code of P91.81?

The parent code of P91.81 is P91.8 ("Other specified disturbances of cerebral status of newborn"). P91.81 provides a more specific classification within this category.

What section is P91.81 in?

P91.81 is located in Section P90-P96 — "Other disorders originating in the perinatal period" within Chapter 16 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of P91.81?

P91.81 has 2 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: P91.811, P91.819.

When should I use P91.81?

Use P91.81 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Neonatal encephalopathy" 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 Neonatal encephalopathy?

The ICD-10-CM code for Neonatal encephalopathy is P91.81.

Can P91.81 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, P91.81 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is P91.81 in?

P91.81 is in Chapter 16 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is P91.81 valid for 2026?

Yes, P91.81 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousP91.8Other specified disturbances of cerebral status of newbornNext →P91.811Neonatal encephalopathy in diseases classified elsewhere
Code Details
P91.81
Neonatal encephalopathy
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
16 — Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period (P00-P96)
P90-P96 — Other disorders originating in the perinatal period
2026 ICD-10-CM