Question 1

Is W56 a billable ICD-10 code?

Accepted Answer

No, W56 is not a billable code. It is a category code that requires additional specificity. You must select a more specific code from the subcategories for billing purposes.

Question 2

What does ICD-10 code W56 mean?

Accepted Answer

ICD-10-CM code W56 represents Contact with nonvenomous marine animal. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification used for medical coding and billing in the United States.

Question 3

When was ICD-10 code W56 introduced?

Accepted Answer

Code W56 has been part of ICD-10-CM since 2016, when the coding system was mandated for use in the United States. This code was included in the original US implementation.

Question 4

What is the parent category for ICD-10 code W56?

Accepted Answer

The parent category for W56 is section:W50-W64 (Exposure to animate mechanical forces (W50-W64)). This hierarchical classification helps organize related diagnoses for more accurate coding.

Question 5

What conditions are excluded from W56?

Accepted Answer

Code W56 has Type 1 Excludes (mutually exclusive conditions) including: contact with venomous marine animal (T63.-). These conditions cannot be coded together with W56 as they represent different diagnoses.

Question 6

Does W56 require a 7th character extension?

Accepted Answer

Yes, W56 requires a 7th character to specify the encounter type. Available extensions include: A (initial encounter), D (subsequent encounter), S (sequela). Use "X" as a placeholder to fill empty positions before the 7th character (e.g., W56XXA for initial encounter). The extension indicates whether this is an initial visit, follow-up, or treatment for a late effect.

W562026

Excludes12Not coded together

Notes1Additional information

7th Character Extensions3Encounter type specifiers