What is the ICD-10 code for GERD (acid reflux)?

The ICD-10-CM code for GERD (acid reflux) is K21.9 when documented without further specification. More specific documentation changes the code — see the scenario table.

Yes — K21.9 is a billable ICD-10-CM code, but payers expect the most specific code the documentation supports.

ICD-10 Code for GERD (acid reflux)

The ICD-10-CM code for GERD (acid reflux) is K21.9 when documented without further specification. Gastro-esophageal reflux disease defaults to K21.9; documented esophagitis changes it to the K21.0- family.

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Which Code Should You Use?

K21.9 ✓ Billable — Gastro-esophageal reflux disease without esophagitis

GERD without esophagitis (or esophagitis not documented).

K21.00 ✓ Billable — Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, without bleeding

GERD WITH esophagitis, without bleeding.

K21.01 ✓ Billable — Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, with bleeding

GERD with esophagitis, WITH bleeding.

R12 ✓ Billable — Heartburn

Heartburn symptom only - no GERD diagnosis documented.

What to Document

Esophagitis presence on endoscopy (drives K21.0- selection).
Bleeding when esophagitis is present.
Barrett's esophagus if found - report K22.7- in addition to the GERD code (both are reportable).

Also Known As

Official ICD-10-CM Alphabetic Index terms that point to K21.9:

Chalasia (cardiac sphincter)
Cardiochalasia
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Reflux
Reflux › acid
Relaxation › cardioesophageal
Reflux › gastroesophageal
Disease, diseased › gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)

Coding Notes

K21.9 is one of the most-used digestive codes; the symptom code R12 applies only when no reflux disease diagnosis is made.

Prevalence & Statistics

Researchers estimate that about 20 percent of people in the United States have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). (NIDDK - Definition & Facts for GER & GERD (Adults), 2020)