ICD-10 Code J96.11 – Chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J96.11 – Chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia
What it is
J96.11 identifies long-term respiratory failure with low blood oxygen levels. Use it when the record documents chronic hypoxia due to inadequate gas exchange, not an acute, temporary episode.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include persistent shortness of breath, oxygen dependence, and evidence of chronic hypoxemia on assessment or testing.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider clearly documents chronic respiratory failure with hypoxia. It may apply in COPD, neuromuscular, or other chronic lung conditions when hypoxia is part of the diagnosis. Code it only when the chronic nature is stated or clearly supported in the chart.
Do not use for
Do not use J96.11 for acute respiratory failure, respiratory distress without failure, or hypoxia alone. If the record does not specify chronic respiratory failure, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign J96.11 only when both chronic respiratory failure and hypoxia are documented; do not infer chronicity from oxygen use alone.