ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 20: External causes of morbidityW17

W17

Non-billable

Other fall from one level to another

Chapter 20:External causes of morbidity

BILLABLE STATUSNo
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 W17 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of other fall from one level to another.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The ICD-10 code category W17 encompasses injuries resulting from falls from one level to another, which can occur in various environments such as homes, workplaces, and public spaces. This category includes incidents where individuals fall from a height, such as stairs, ladders, or other elevated surfaces, leading to a range of potential injuries. The clinical significance of accurately coding these falls lies in the need for appropriate treatment and management of the resulting injuries, which can vary from minor bruises to severe fractures or head trauma. Proper coding also aids in tracking fall-related injuries for public health initiatives and prevention strategies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fall mechanisms
  • Diversity of potential injuries
  • Need for precise documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the fall mechanism
  • Misclassification of injury severity
  • Failure to specify the location of the fall

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical and administrative impact of the W17 code category is significant, as it helps healthcare providers identify trends in fall-related injuries and implement preventive measures. Accurate coding can influence quality measures and population health initiatives aimed at reducing falls, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Additionally, understanding the implications of these codes can guide healthcare organizations in resource allocation and the development of targeted interventions to improve patient safety and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical and administrative impact of the W17 code category is significant, as it helps healthcare providers identify trends in fall-related injuries and implement preventive measures. Accurate coding can influence quality measures and population health initiatives aimed at reducing falls, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Additionally, understanding the implications of these codes can guide healthcare organizations in resource allocation and the development of targeted interventions to improve patient safety and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations may vary based on the severity of the injuries and the treatment provided. It is essential to ensure that all relevant information is included in the medical record to support the billed services, as this can impact both reimbursement and compliance with payer policies. Common billing practices include using modifiers to indicate the nature of the injury and ensuring that all documentation aligns with the codes submitted.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for W17

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for W17

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions are included in W17?

W17 includes falls from various heights, such as stairs, ladders, and other elevated surfaces, leading to injuries like fractures, contusions, or concussions.

When should I use W17 codes?

W17 codes should be used when documenting injuries resulting from falls from one level to another, ensuring that the specific circumstances of the fall are accurately captured.

What documentation is required for W17?

Documentation must include details about the fall, such as the height from which the individual fell, the surface they fell onto, and any resulting injuries, as well as the patient's medical history.