CMS Contracts with Fox Systems for NPI Processing

BALTIMORE–CMS has selected Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Fox Systems
Inc. as the contractor to support the implementation of standard
unique health care provider identification numbers. Fox will
process applications from health care providers and operate a help
desk to assist them in getting the new National Provider Identifier
numbers.

Adopting the NPI is the latest step in implementing the
administrative simplification provisions mandated by the Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. It’s a new numbering
system that will replace all legacy identifiers currently being
used.

All providers affected by HIPAA must obtain an NPI, according to
CMS. The compliance date is May 23, 2007, and the following year
for small health plans.

The assignment of NPIs will begin later this year. For now,
providers do not need to take any action to apply for NPIs, CMS
explained, adding that it will make an announcement when the agency
is ready to take applications.

For more information on NPIs, visit the CMS Web site by
clicking here.