NPI clock is ticking...Fast

April 15th is drawing closer. Everyone knows this as tax day. They know it is there but people seem to wait to the very last moment to do their taxes. The stress and anxiety continues to mount as the day draws closer and closer. Then there is a mad rush to finish their taxes and submit their information. There is another day that is drawing closer and it is May 23, 2007. What day is that you may ask? For health care providers it should be a known date. Health care providers must obtain a National Provider Identifier number or NPI number before this day. This is in accordance with HIPAA's Administrative Simplification provision.

What is a NPI number?
NPI in this case stands for National Provider Identifier and is a set of unique numbers that have been designed to improve and streamline the effectiveness of the electronic transmission of health information. This is a large undertaking but should have huge benefits once everyone has complied.

Why do I need an NPI number?
To comply with HIPAA's Admistrative Simplification a NPI number is needed. What is HIPAA? HIPAA is actually government legislation that is designed to simplify the process of administration in the medical field. HIPAA was also designed to standardize medical transactions. A part of standardizing transactions is making them electronic, which will most likely be of great benefit to the medical industry in the near future. For more information visit: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/

Does getting an NPI number cost anything?
No. It is FREE. Once again it is free! But some of your providers may charge for this an upgrade. Be wary of this. It is free.

How do I get my NPI number?
They have made it as easy as possible to obtain your NPI number. You can call, email, or mail your request. You can visit the following website for more details: https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/Welcome.do

So get your NPI number before it is too late and don't let the stress of the May 23, 2007 get you. Relax in knowing that you are getting your number ahead of time. Good luck and get your NPI number before it is to late as of right now there when this article is being written there is only 105 days away!

About the Author: Marketing Specialist for AdvancedMD Software in Draper, Utah. For more information about NPI or medical billing software, please feel free to contact an AdvancedMD representative.