Q36
Non-Billable

Cleft lip

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Cleft lip?

ICD-10-CM Q36 is the diagnosis code for Cleft lip. This code falls under the section "Cleft lip and cleft palate" within Chapter 17 — Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-QA0). 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.

⛔ Excludes1

Coding Guidelines for Q36

⛔ Type 1 Excludes (Never code together)

The following conditions should never be coded at the same time as Q36. They are mutually exclusive:

  • cleft lip with cleft palate (Q37.-)

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where Q36 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Sub-Codes 3 entries
Q36.0Cleft lip, bilateralBillableQ36.1Cleft lip, medianBillableQ36.9Cleft lip, unilateralBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Q36 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, Q36 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does Q36 mean?

Q36 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Cleft lip". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What section is Q36 in?

Q36 is located in Section Q35-Q37 — "Cleft lip and cleft palate" within Chapter 17 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of Q36?

Q36 has 3 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: Q36.0, Q36.1, Q36.9.

When should I use Q36?

Use Q36 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Cleft lip" 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 Cleft lip?

The ICD-10-CM code for Cleft lip is Q36.

Can Q36 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, Q36 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is Q36 in?

Q36 is in Chapter 17 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What conditions are excluded from Q36?

Type 1 Excludes for Q36 include: cleft lip with cleft palate (Q37.-).

Is Q36 valid for 2026?

Yes, Q36 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousQ35.9Cleft palate, unspecifiedNext →Q36.0Cleft lip, bilateral
Code Details
Q36
Cleft lip
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
17 — Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-QA0)
Q35-Q37 — Cleft lip and cleft palate
2026 ICD-10-CM