What is a type 1 NPI number primarily related to?

A type 1 NPI (National Provider Identifier) number is specifically designated for individual healthcare providers. This type of identifier is tied to individual practitioners such as doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals who bill for services under their name. The primary purpose of the type 1 NPI is to serve as a unique identification number that distinguishes individual providers in a way that does not let their personal information be confused or merged with that of other providers.

In the context of healthcare, type 1 NPIs are essential for billing and record-keeping, facilitating clear identification of individual practitioners in billing claims and within the system of electronic health records.

Understanding this makes it clear why the focus is on individual provider state-issued license numbers, as they are intricately linked to the identity and qualifications of those individual practitioners who provide medical services.