As part of the administrative simplification provision of HIPAA, which unique identifier is assigned to third-party payers?

The National Health Plan Identifier (HPID) is the correct answer because it was established by the administrative simplification provisions of HIPAA to streamline healthcare billing and administrative processes. The HPID uniquely identifies health plans and insurance companies, making it easier for healthcare providers to conduct administrative transactions like submitting claims and tracking reimbursements.

This identifier is particularly important because it enhances the efficiency of operations between various entities in the healthcare system. By having a unique identifier for health plans, similar to the way the National Provider Identifier (NPI) serves healthcare providers, it reduces confusion and errors in billing and improves the overall efficiency of healthcare administration.

In contrast, the National Individual Identifier is aimed at identifying individuals within the healthcare system, while the National Standard Employer Identifier Number (EIN) is used primarily for tax and employment purposes rather than healthcare billing. The National Provider Identifier (NPI) identifies individual healthcare providers or organizations but does not serve the function of identifying third-party payers specifically.