What is the ICD‑10‑CM code for overweight?

ICD-10-CM Code for Overweight

The ICD-10-CM code for overweight is E66, which is the same code used for the broader category of obesity and overweight conditions.

Code Specification

The E66 code encompasses both overweight and obesity diagnoses 1. While the guidelines define overweight clinically as BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m² (or 23.0-24.9 kg/m² in certain Asian populations) 2, 1, the ICD-10-CM coding system does not provide a distinct separate code exclusively for overweight versus obesity.

Clinical Context for Coding

When using the E66 code for overweight:

• Anthropometric confirmation required: The diagnosis must be confirmed by physical examination to verify excess adiposity, not just elevated BMI from muscularity, edema, or other factors 2, 1

• Staging matters for documentation: Even though the ICD code is the same, clinical documentation should specify:

  • Overweight Stage 0: BMI 25-29.9 kg/m² with no obesity-related complications 1
  • This staging affects treatment algorithms and insurance coverage for interventions

Important Coding Caveats

The E66 code has high specificity (98.6%) but very low sensitivity (39.4%) 3. This means:

• When the code is present, it accurately reflects true overweight/obesity (PPV 95.6%)
• However, only 39-54% of patients with measured BMI ≥25 kg/m² actually receive the code 3, 4
• Completeness of coding is only 10.9% in some healthcare systems 5

Predictors of more consistent E66 coding include: female sex, age >24 years, Medicare Advantage insurance, higher BMI values, and receipt of weight management interventions 3.

Practical Application

For billing and documentation purposes, use ICD-10-CM code E66 for overweight, but ensure:

• BMI is documented (25.0-29.9 kg/m²)
• Physical examination confirms adiposity
• Waist circumference is measured when appropriate (≥102 cm in men, ≥88 cm in women in US/Canada) 2, 1
• Clinical staging (Stage 0,1, or 2) is documented based on presence and severity of complications 1