Quick and simple are two words generally not associated with government requirements and forms. Maybe that’s part of the reason why applying for an NPI falls to the bottom of so many to-do lists. Or maybe it’s that it seems like there is plenty of time left before the May 23, 2007 deadline requiring the use of NPIs on all electronic transactions.

Whatever the reason, thousands of dentists who have already been through the process can attest that it’s fast and easy. The application is free takes about 20 minutes to complete. When applications are submitted by e-mail, NPIs arrive within 1-5 business days. Mailed applications are processed within 20 days and then returned by U.S. mail.

Besides being a quick and easy way to knock something off of a to-do list, getting an NPI earlier rather than later also helps the industry as it works toward meeting the May 23, 2007 compliance deadline. Many payers will soon ask for you to submit NPIs in conjunction with existing identification numbers already in use so they can get the new numbers into their systems.

“We’re not quite ready to accept NPIs in place of other identifiers exclusively,” said Janis Oshensky, vice president of professional relations for Delta Dental Plans Association. “But we encourage all dentists to apply for an NPI and to send their numbers to us once we notify them that we’re ready.”

To apply online, log on to https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov. To send the application by mail (faxes are not accepted), you can obtain a copy of the form by calling 1-800-465-3203 and mailing to: NPI Enumerator, P.O. Box 6059, Fargo, ND 58108-6059.

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