National Provider Idenitifier (NPI)

Overview

Additional Information

Overview

The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a component of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).  HIPAA regulations require the use of unique identification numbers for health care providers on electronic claims and other administrative and financial transactions. Use of the NPI is intended to simplify health care administration by allowing providers to work with different health plans using the same identification information. The NPI is assigned to every health care provider in the United States by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).  The NPI is 10 digits and contains no intelligence regarding the provider.  Health care providers, clearinghouses, and payers are required to use the NPI to identify providers on HIPAA covered transactions.

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For Additional Information:

Link to the NPI Rule and Regulations – information regarding the NPI rule and the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES)

Link to DHCS NPI Compliance – information and links to NPI compliance information for Medi-Cal and other DHCS programs.