Before we get started, let's talk about the NPI a little...
What is an NPI Number?
NPI stands for National Provider Identifier. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issues a 10 digit number to healthcare providers in the USA. NPIs have been issued since 2006, and have replaced the UPIN (unique provider identification number).
All licensed physical therapists must have an NPI to practice.
Why do Physical Therapists Need an NPI number?
If you think of an NPI number like a social security number or tax ID, it makes more sense.
- If you use electronic medical records like WebPT, Clinicient, or TheraOffice, your NPI can be used to identify you and your patients' records this way.
- HIPAA transactions require use of an NPI.
- Healthcare plans identify physical therapists by their NPI.
- Not that you would do this, but your NPI is a good way to track any unlawful activity on your part.
Can anyone see my NPI?
- Yep. Your employer, patients and significant others can look up your NPI.
- Use this website to look up your NPI number.
How do I get an NPI number?
- Sometimes your employer will enroll you directly. Healthcare organizations can register for multiple NPIs for their employees.
- Other times, you will be tasked with the enrollment process yourself (this will usually happen in smaller clinics, or when you are an individual provider.)
What if I Switch Clinics?
No problem . . . just add clinic locations as you go! Visit https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/Welcome.do to make updates.
Information Required for Individual Providers
- Your Name
- Social Security Number
- State License Info
- Date of Birth
- Location of Birth
- Gender
- Mailing Address
- Practice Location Phone Number & Address
- Provider Type/Taxonomy
- Name/Phone/Email of Contact Person
Got questions? Contact NPPES at:
1-800-465-3203 (NPI Toll-Free) | 1-800-692-2326 (NPI TTY)
customerservice@npienumerator.com
PO Box 6059
Fargo, ND 58108-6059
Do you have questions for the NGPT team? Is there anything we can do to make your experience with this resource better? Post in the comments below and we'll get back to you ASAP. You will need to register or login to comment.
The author of this article put in lots of work to provide you with this information. Even though we try our best, there is no guarantee the article is error free. NewGradPhysicalTherapy.com, its staff, and its writers make no representation, warranty, or guarantee that this article and its contents are error-free. NGPT will bear no responsibility or liability for the results or consequences of the information contained within.
Discover what can further motivate you in your PT career right here:
