As the industry transitions to NPI compliance, remember that there is no charge to get an NPI. Providers can apply online for their NPI, free of charge, by visiting https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov or by calling 800.465.3203 to request a paper application. The CMS NPI page, located at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvidentStand, is the only source for official CMS education and information on the NPI initiative; all products located on this site are free of charge.

CMS continues to urge providers to include legacy identifiers on their NPI applications, not only for Medicare but for all payors. If reporting a Medicaid number, include the associated State name. If providers have already applied for their NPI, CMS asks them to go back into the NPPES and update their information with their legacy identifiers. This information is critical for payors in the development of crosswalks to aid in the transition to the NPI.

Getting an NPI is free—not having one can be costly.