The Department of Health and Human Services has adopted a mandatory, unique health identifier, the National Provider Identifier (NPI), to be used by health care professionals and organizations in HIPAA standard electronic transactions.

The NPI is a unique 10-digit identifier that health plans, clearinghouses, and providers must use for electronic transactions to be in compliance with HIPAA. What does this mean? All HIPAA-covered health care providers, whether they are individuals or organizations, must obtain an NPI; the NPI remains with the provider regardless of job or location changes.

NPI is required on all HIPAA standard electronic transactions beginning on May 23, 2007. There is NO COST affiliated with the mandatory requirement of obtaining an NPI number. The web-based application is available at the CMS web site.

You can also submit a paper application to the Enumerator. The Enumerator’s address is available at the CMS web site or by calling 1-800-465-3203 or TTY 1-800-692-2326.

For more information and FAQ's regarding NPI, go to the CMS web site - NPI Overview