Introduction: The National Provider Identifier (NPI) Registry is a free public directory of all active National Provider Identifier (NPI) records. It includes each provider's name, practice address, phone number, and taxonomy (specialty). DrFirst uses the NPI Registry to verify provider information. NPI Registry profiles must be accurate and current for successful registration, identity verification, and uninterrupted prescribing.
[Accordion] FAQs
[Q] Why does a provider's NPI Registry information matter for ePrescribing?
[A] ClinicTracker's ePrescribing partner, DrFirst, cross-references NPI Registry data to:
- Enable registration – Provider profiles must match the NPI Registry before registration is complete
- Send identity proofing invites – Identity proofing (IDP) and EPCS invites cannot be sent if the provider's profile doesn't match their NPI Registry information
- Prescribe without interruptions (especially for controlled substances)– Providers cannot prescribe if their information changes and no longer matches the NPI Registry. Name changes are a common cause of prescribing blocks. The registry must be updated first, then their DrFirst account synced to match.
[Q] What does DrFirst require from the NPI Registry?
[A] These fields in the provider's DrFirst account profile must exactly match the NPI Registry:
- First name
- Last name
- State
- Medical license number
Before registering a provider: Verify their NPI Registry information is current and matches what you'll enter in their DrFirst ePrescribing profile
[Q] How does a provider check their NPI Registry information?
[A] Visit the NPI Registry Public Search and search for the provider's NPI record using their name or NPI number. Review:
- Legal name (first and last)
- State(s) where they hold a medical license
- License number(s)
- Primary practice state
[Q] What if the provider's information does not match or is outdated?
[A] The provider may update their information through the National Plan & Provider Enumeration System (NPPES). The online application is the fastest method.
What the provider should update:
- Legal name (first and last)
- Primary practice state
- State license number(s) for all states where you practice
- Primary Taxonomy License Number
- If the provider has both primary and secondary specialties, they should update their primary specialty (Taxonomy) to the one DrFirst should recognize.
[Q] How long does the provider need to wait for DrFirst to update their system after making NPI Registry changes?
[A] DrFirst receives NPI Registry updates each Sunday and applies them the following Wednesday at the earliest.
[Q] How can a provider contact the NPI Registry?
[A] The provider may contact the NPI Enumerator for assistance with applications or updates using the information below:
- Phone: 1-800-465-3203
- TTY: 800-692-2326
- Email: customerservice@npienumerator.com