You may need an NPI, that is.
Your claims won't require a National Provider Identifier (NPI) until May 2007, but you may need one sooner.
That was the preliminary word from federal officials speaking at an Open Door Forum held June 6.
Officials from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services reminded health care providers to get their NPI now if they haven't already.
The new numbers, issued in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996, will be required for all Medicare billing beginning in May.
CMS officials plan to clarify the need for an NPI as it relates to recertification at the next SNF Open Door Forum.
To apply for a number online, go to https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/StaticForward.do?forward=static. instructions. The process takes about 20 minutes, according to CMS officials.
To apply on paper, print out the form available at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvIdentStand/Downloads/NPIapplication.pdf