The main datasets
| Dataset | Publisher | What it records | Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| NPPES NPI Registry | CMS | Every NPI: Type 1 for individual clinicians, Type 2 for organisations, with taxonomy (specialty) codes and practice addresses | Search, API, full download |
| Provider Data Catalog | CMS | Medicare-enrolled clinicians and facilities, the data behind Medicare Care Compare | data.cms.gov/provider-data |
| Health center sites | HRSA | Locations of HRSA-funded health centers, including Federally Qualified Health Centers | data.hrsa.gov |
An NPI is a 10-digit identifier. It shows that a clinician or organisation registered with CMS; it is not a license and does not show board certification. Licensing is verified with each state's licensing board.
How ClinicStats uses NPPES
The "Providers listed and verified" check reads provider names and credentials from your site, then looks for matching active records through the public NPPES API. A match tells patients and search engines that the people named on your site are real, registered clinicians. When names are listed but none match, the usual cause is a nickname, a missing middle initial or a record with an old practice address.
Keep your own records current
- CMS requires providers to report changes to their NPPES information within 30 days. Update practice location and phone after a move, for each clinician and for the organisation NPI.
- Use the same practice name and address in NPPES, on your Google Business Profile and on your website.
- If you bill Medicare, check that your Care Compare listing shows the right specialty and location; it is drawn from Medicare enrollment, not from NPPES.