NPI (National Provider Identifier)

The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique identification number used by healthcare providers in the United States. It helps accurately identify individual practitioners, clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare entities in electronic health records, billing, and insurance transactions. Established by the federal government, the NPI improves the efficiency and security of healthcare communication, ensuring that providers are correctly recognized and their services properly billed. It is a standard, permanent number that remains with the provider throughout their career, streamlining administrative processes and reducing errors in healthcare identification and payment.