Poor advice on the internet can lead to making the enrollment process even more confusing than it already is. eHow.com is a large reference site and I came across their article recently that describes “How to Get a Medicare Provider Number”. See their site article here. The article states that “A Medicare provider number is known as a “national provider identifier,” a ten-digit identification number for covered health care providers”. Obviously whoever wrote the article doesn’t understand the US Healthcare industry.
Click here for an accurate description of how to obtain a Medicare Provider Number.
Medicare provider numbers are issued by contractors who have bid and won the contract for administering the Medicare program in a specific jurisdiction. Click here for a list of Medicare contractors by state. Medicare provider numbers are obtained by submitting the appropriate Medicare provider/supplier enrollment applications to the appropriate Medicare intermediary. Medicare enrollment applications can be submitted by using paper forms such as the CMS-855I for an individual provider, the CMS-855B for a group/supplier, and other forms. Providers may also use the online application through the Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership System (PECOS). Different provider types have varying enrollment requirements so become familiar with what your carrier needs to properly enroll you and/or your group.
Yes, you must have an NPI to do business with any health insurance company including Medicare. But, your NPI is NOT your Medicare provider number. You may obtain an NPI through NPPES by applying online, click here to go to their website. It’s a quick and simple process.
Call nCred today for assistance with all your provider enrollment needs.
