MPID

MPID stands for **Medical Professional Identification Number**, a unique identifier used in the United States to distinguish healthcare providers from one another. Administered by the **National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES)**, MPIDs are assigned to licensed medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, dentists, and other healthcare practitioners. The system ensures accurate billing, claims processing, and patient record management by providing a standardized way to identify providers across different healthcare networks.

Originally introduced to improve efficiency in healthcare administration, MPIDs are required for participating in Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health programs. Each MPID is a 10-digit alphanumeric code, often linked to a provider’s **National Provider Identifier (NPI)**, though they serve distinct purposes. While the NPI is used for billing and transactions, the MPID is primarily tied to a provider’s **DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) registration number**, particularly for those prescribing controlled substances.

Healthcare providers must maintain an active MPID to comply with regulatory requirements. The NPPES database allows professionals to update their information, including practice locations, specialties, and contact details. Failure to keep an MPID current can result in billing delays or disqualification from participating in government health programs.

MPIDs are also relevant in electronic health record (EHR) systems, where they help ensure accurate provider verification and reduce errors in patient care. While not as widely recognized as the NPI, the MPID remains a critical component of healthcare provider identification in the U.S. system.