How long will it take to get an NPI?
We cannot predict the amount of time it will take to obtain a National Provider Identifier (NPI) because several factors come into play. Such factors include the volume of applications being processed at a given time, whether the application was submitted electronically or on paper, and whether the application was complete and passed all edits. We expect that a health care provider who submits a properly completed electronic application could have its NPI in 10 days.
What is the format of the NPI? The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is all numeric and is 10 positions in length: the first 9 positions are the identifier and the last position is a check digit. The check digit helps detect invalid NPIs. There is no embedded intelligence in the NPI with respect to the health care provider that it identifies.
Do I need a National Provider Identifier (NPI) to enroll in the Medicare Program? Yes, an NPI must be included on the CMS-855 enrollment application.
