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If You Prescribe, Think About Getting an NPI

If you write prescriptions for your dental patients, you should consider applying for an NPI. Regardless of whether you’re considered a “covered entity” under the NPI regulation or not, using an NPI to identify yourself on prescriptions will make it easier for pharmacies to fill patients’ prescriptions and for those claims to be processed quickly and accurately.

All dentists and health professionals are eligible to apply for an NPI and are encouraged to get one. Some dentists are considered “covered entities” under the NPI standard because they are involved in electronic transactions such as submitting and checking claims online. These health professionals are required by federal law to use NPIs on all transactions beginning May 23rd, 2007.

If you’re not considered a “covered entity,” there are a number of reasons to consider applying for and using an NPI in place of other identifiers.

Because of the requirements of a number of individual payers, pharmacies will have a more difficult time with prescription claims that do not include NPIs. According to the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs, about 80 percent of the four billion real-time pharmacy transactions require prescribers to be identified on claims. The NPI can be used as this identifier, replacing payer specific prescriber identifiers.

In addition to the benefits of using an NPI on pharmacy claims, there are other reasons that it makes good business sense. With one simple identification number, there’s no need to maintain and match different identifiers to specific payers for transactions. The number stays with you, whether you move or change specialties. It contributes to a more efficient coordination of benefits. Finally, if you decide to begin using electronic transactions, it’s an easy transition.

The application process is quick, simple and free. To find out more information about NPI compliance and to apply for your NPI, visit the official government Web site at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvIdentStand/

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Dentists are encouraged to seek their own legal advice regarding the application of the National Provider Identifier Rule to their practices and circumstances.