Diagnostic code
296 — Mood Disorders: (e.g. Manic episode, Bipolar affective disorder, Depressive episode)
296 is an OHIP diagnostic code used on Ontario Health Insurance Plan claims. Mood Disorders: (e.g. Manic episode, Bipolar affective disorder, Depressive episode).
- Code
- 296
- Description
- Mood Disorders: (e.g. Manic episode, Bipolar affective disorder, Depressive episode)
Updated October 26, 2026
296 is the OHIP diagnostic code for mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, manic episodes and depressive episodes.
Conditions billed under this code
- Major depressive disorder
- Bipolar disorder
What it covers
The Ministry lists 296 as 'Mood Disorders: (e.g. Manic episode, Bipolar affective disorder, Depressive episode)' under Mental and Behavioural Disorders. The wording was updated in March 2026 (INFOBulletin 260314).
Use it for bipolar disorder and mania, and for a major depressive episode.
Close neighbours: 311 depressive disorder not elsewhere classified, 295 schizophrenia spectrum disorders, 298 psychosis not yet diagnosed, 300 anxiety.
Billing notes
- Family physicians bill time spent on mental health care as K005, primary mental health care, per half-hour unit (A21).
- K005 isn't payable with another consultation or visit by the same physician on the same day unless the two services have clearly different diagnoses (A21, GP55).
- In eligible primary care models, Q020A tracks bipolar disorder and Q021A schizophrenia for the serious mental illness premium (AQ11).
Related codes: 311, 295, 298, 300
Sources
- OHIP Diagnostic Codes (Ministry of Health, February 2026)
- INFOBulletin 260314: New diagnostic codes and updated descriptions (March 2026)
- Schedule of Benefits: Physician Services (effective July 1, 2026)
- OMA Primary Care Q-Codes Quick Reference Guide (November 2020)
APEX flags claims whose diagnostic code does not fit the service billed before they come back rejected. See how APEX works · Pricing