Type 2 NPI: Definition and Healthcare Context
Full name: Organizational National Provider Identifier
A Type 2 NPI is a National Provider Identifier assigned to organizations — health care entities that provide health care services or supplies and have a workforce that submits claims under the organization's name. Hospitals, group practices, clinics, laboratories, and home health agencies are examples. A single organization may have multiple Type 2 NPIs for distinct subparts that file separately with Medicare. Type 2 NPIs are managed through NPPES and included in public bulk data downloads.
How it’s used
- CMS NPPES NPI Registry: Type 2 records use entity_type_code 2 and can include organization names, authorized officials, and submitted practice locations.
- CMS Provider of Services (POS) File: facility records use CCNs as primary identifiers; an NPI join is available only where the source supplies one.
- CMS Care Compare: most facility quality datasets are keyed by CCN, not organizational NPI; the ASC file is a documented NPI-bearing exception.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a Type 2 NPI?
- A Type 2 NPI is assigned to organizations — hospitals, group practices, home health agencies, and other health care entities that bill under the organization's name.
- Can an organization have multiple Type 2 NPIs?
- Yes. An organization may obtain separate Type 2 NPIs for subparts — such as hospital departments that file cost reports or claims independently.
- Do all hospitals have an NPI?
- Yes. All HIPAA-covered hospitals and other health care organizations must have a Type 2 NPI for use in electronic administrative transactions.