NPI - Important Dates

CMS states that while over 90% of claims submitted to them have an NPI on them, the vast majority of them have the legacy number also. CMS is urging all providers to send in a small batch of claims with only the NPI in the proper fields to serve as a test so any problems can be resolved prior to May 23, 2008 when the claims will be rejected.

March 1, 2008
CMS 1500 forms must include an NPI in the provider fields on the claim form. According to CMS, ASCs may continue to submit claims with NPI/legacy pairs or submit only the NPI. ASCs may NOT submit claims with only a legacy number; these claims will be rejected. ASC Association urges ASCs to begin submitting claims with only the NPI in these fields to serve as a test that all claims will be accepted.

May 23, 2008
CMS 1500 forms must have only NPI in all provider fields. If a claim has any legacy numbers in any fields it will be rejected. CMS will also stop sending legacy numbers on COB crossover claims.

Download Medicare MLN article on guidance for completing the CMS 1500 form with NPI in the correct fields here.

For more information you can link to CMS NPI web page at www.cms.hhs.gov/NationalProvIdentStand

Apply for the NPI at https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov