What number is issued to providers upon enrollment in the Medicare program?

The Provider Transaction Access Number (PTAN) is the correct answer because it is the unique identifier that Medicare assigns to providers once they are enrolled in the Medicare program. This number is essential for billing purposes and enables providers to submit claims and access Medicare systems. The PTAN ensures that Medicare can accurately track claims and payments associated with specific providers, thereby facilitating smoother communication and transactions between healthcare providers and Medicare.

In contrast, the National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a separate number used for all healthcare providers in the United States, allowing for standardized identification across the healthcare system but is not specific to just Medicare enrollment. The Medicare identification number refers to the identifiers given to beneficiaries, not providers. The state provider code may vary by state and is not universally applicable for Medicare enrollment. Understanding the distinction between these identifiers is crucial for properly navigating the Medicare enrollment and billing process.