What Is an NPI Number?
An NPI number is a unique 10-digit identifier assigned to every healthcare provider in the United States. Here's what you need to know.
What Does NPI Stand For?
NPI stands for National Provider Identifier. It's a standard unique identification number created by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996.
Who Has an NPI Number?
All healthcare providers who transmit health information electronically are required to have an NPI. This includes physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, and healthcare organizations like hospitals and clinics.
How to Find a Doctor's NPI Number
You can look up any provider's NPI number in several ways:
- Search on DoctorLicensePro by name
- Use the official CMS NPI Registry
- Ask your doctor's office directly
- Check your medical bills or Explanation of Benefits (EOB)
What Information Is Linked to an NPI?
The NPI record includes the provider's name, practice address, phone number, medical specialty, and the date the NPI was assigned. It does not contain patient health records, Social Security numbers, or payment information.
NPI vs. DEA Number
An NPI is not the same as a DEA number. The DEA number is used for prescribing controlled substances and is issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration. NPI numbers are used for billing and identification across all healthcare transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is my NPI number public?
- Yes. NPI numbers are part of the public NPPES database maintained by CMS. Anyone can look up an NPI number.
- Can an NPI number change?
- No. An NPI number is assigned once and remains the same for the provider's entire career, even if they change their name, specialty, or practice location.
- Do all doctors have NPI numbers?
- Yes. All physicians who provide healthcare services and bill insurance are required to have an NPI. Over 9 million healthcare providers have been assigned NPIs.