These providers would not have to apply for an NPI under either option. The registry would enter the provider's data into NPs NPs would assign an NPI and the registry would notify the provider. Federal programs and Medicaid State Agencies would enumerate their own health care providers by entering the data into the NPs The NPs would assign NPIs to the providers. If a provider participated in more than one Federal or Medicaid health plan, a choice could be made as to which it wishes to be enumerated. NPIs can also be used to identify other health care providers in health care transactions or correspondence.
Health plans can also use NPIs to communicate with health care providers.
Clearinghouses can use NPIs when communicating with health care providers and plans. NPIs could also be used by DHHS to cross reference health care providers in fraud and abuse files. They are different. The PlanID will be assigned to health plans. NPIs will be assigned to health care providers.