CMS publishes final rule for National Provider Identifier

Healthcare Financial Management, March, 2004

HHS has published a final rule adopting the National Provider Identifier (NPI) as the standard unique health identifier for healthcare providers. The rule appeared in the January 23, 2004, Federal Register.

NPIs are intended to provide unique identifications for each healthcare provider in standard transactions, such as healthcare claims. The compliance date for all covered entities except small health plans is May 23, 2007; the compliance date for small health plans is May 23, 2008. As of the compliance dates, the NPI will be the only healthcare provider identifier permissible for identification purposes in standard transactions by covered entities. The system that will handle the assignment of the NPIs will be ready to accept applications for NPIs after the effective date of the final rule, which is May 23, 2005. Healthcare providers may begin applying for NPIs on that date.

To read CMS's frequently asked questions (FAQs) on NPIs, go to www.questions.cms.hhs.gov/cgibin/cmshhs.cfg/php/enduser/std_alp.php.>

COPYRIGHT 2004 Healthcare Financial Management Association

COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group