Shipmates, I need your assistance with the widest dissemination of the information below to all IDC's assigned to your subordinate and fleet commands.
Per the new OPNAVINST 6400.1C (Training, Certification, Supervision Program and Employment of Independent Duty Corpsmen), all IDC's will be required to have a National Provider Identifier. This is not a new program. It has been required for medical officers to have an NPI for a few years now. Now it is mandated that IDC's as Military Healthcare Providers also have one.
All IDC's who do not already have a National Provider Identifier are directed to obtain one. The information below provides guidance on how to apply for an NPI. POC information for any questions is located at bottom left side of this e-mail.
National Provider Identifiers Type I (NPI)
Background:
Leaders in Navy Medicine have embraced the concept of the National Provider Identifier Type I (NPI). It's basically a unique identifier kept on a national registry. It's free. It's permanent (unless yours has been tampered with via fraudulent claims or something) and it's very easy to get.
Who needs to get an NPI?
Military Healthcare Providers that need to be identified in HIPAA electronic transactions, all privileged healthcare providers, residents, and certain non-privileged healthcare providers - if their work involves requesting referral, requesting consult, or providing billable services.
How do I get my NPI?
Easy, just go to https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/ and follow the online instructions. You can also do it via paper forms through your local credentialing office (Professional Affairs). If not available locally, a copy of the forms can be accessed via http://www.cms.hhs.gov/forms . (Then place 'NPI' in the search engine and press return). Providers may also call
1-800-692-2326 for a copy too. (Beware it's an automated system...the website was easiest.)
What is the HIPAA taxonomy number?
You select this from a pull down menu. First the Broader category of other, and then the specialty of Independent Duty Corpsman 1710I1002X
What do I do with my NPI once I get it?
You'll need to give a hard copy of it to your IDC Program Manager for inclusion in your file. They will in turn forward a copy to dmhrsiteam@med..navy.mil
Is that it? Am I all done?
No...every time you transfer, you'll need to update your new address within 30 days of arrival. It's easy, just visit the same sites as above and update your address.
User ID and Password. You will need to remember the user ID and Password you use in order to update or if you ever need to get another copy or check on your NPI for any reason.
But what if I have any questions concerning this NPI?
You can contact the BUMED IDC Program Managers:
HMCM Boyce/HMCM Thompson
DSN 762-3471/3472
Commercial (202)762-3471/3472
E-mail at kmboyce@us.med.navy.mil and tommie.thompson@med.navy.mil
or you can contact the BUMED credentials office if you cannot resolve matters locally
Ms. Stazy Godlewski
DSN 762-3194
Commercial (202) 762-3194
E-mail at segodlewski@us.med.navy.mil.
