The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique 10-digit identification number assigned to healthcare providers in the United States. It was created by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to:
- Standardize the identification of healthcare providers across different healthcare settings and organizations.
- Improve the efficiency and accuracy of healthcare information exchange.
- Reduce fraud and abuse in the healthcare system.
Who needs an NPI?
Most healthcare providers who electronically transmit healthcare information must have an NPI. This includes:
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Dentists
- Chiropractors
- Physical therapists
- Mental health professionals
- Laboratories
- Home healthcare agencies
- Hospitals
- Other healthcare providers who bill for their services
How to get an NPI
You can apply for an NPI for free on the National Provider Registry website: https://npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov/: https://npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov/
What to do with your NPI
Once you have your NPI, you should share it with your patients, health plans, and other healthcare providers who need to know it. You should also update your NPI information if it changes.
Benefits of using NPIs
Using NPIs can help to:
- Improve the accuracy and efficiency of healthcare information exchange
- Reduce fraud and abuse in the healthcare system
- Make it easier for patients to find and coordinate their care
