How to Obtain a National Provider Number

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) was enacted to simplify a continually growing health care provider system. One major measure of the act requires health care providers to submit information to a national agency that categorizes each business or institution. The result is what's known as the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES), which assigns a unique member number to all health care providers; this number is called the National Provider Identifier (NPI).

Instructions

Instructions

1. Gather required demographic information. A different set of information is required depending on whether you represent an individual or organization. Read the application instructions for the list of documents and related information necessary to receive a National Provider Identifier.

2. Choose an application method. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services recommends using the online application system linked in the Resources section, but you may also apply via mail. A paper application can be downloaded from the Resources link or requested by calling 1-800-465-3203 or sending an email to [e-mail].

3. Complete the application. Missing details or required information may delay the NPI process or cause your application to be denied. Response times vary depending on the application method. If you do not receive a response within 14 days of submitting an application, contact Fox Systems Inc., which handles NPI applications at 1-800-465-3203

References

• CMS.gov: How to Apply National Provider Identifier
• National Plan & Provider Enumeration System: National Provider System

Resources

• CMS.gov: How to Apply National Provider Identifier
• National Plan & Provider Enumeration System: National Provider System
• CMS.gov: Application Instructions