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.