Here are definitions of some of the terms that are used throughout the site.

National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA): Not-for-profit accrediting organization that performs quality-oriented reviews of HMOs and similar types of managed care plans.

NPI-National Provider Identifier: The National Provider Identifier (NPI) for your provider group or entity. The NPI is the national standard unique health identifier for health care providers. This number is required as of May 23, 2007.

NC Medicaid Provider: If you provide Medicaid services for the state of North Carolina, select the YES radio button.

Negotiated Rate: The amount participating providers agree to accept as payment in full for covered services. It is usually lower than their normal charge. Negotiated rates are determined by Participating Provider Agreements.

Network: A group of physicians, hospitals and other health care providers working with a health care plan to offer care at negotiated rates and at other agreed upon terms.

Network Provider:  See also Participating provider

Non-Hospital Facility: An institution or entity other than a hospital which is accredited and licensed or certified in the state where located.

Non-Participating Provider: A medical provider who has not contracted with a health plan as a participating provider.

Non-preferred Brand Drugs: Brand name drugs that do not have a generic equivalent, but have a therapeutic alternative Preferred brand drug available.

• Brand name drugs not usually used as the first line of treatment.
• Brand name drugs that have a generic equivalent.
• Second-highest copayment.

No appointments available: This provider's schedule is full; this provider is not accepting any additional patients. How information is collected: Information is indicated by the provider at upon initial contracting or renewal of contract. When is the information updated: When the provider updates BCBSNC to a change in status.

Nutrition Counseling: Qualified practitioners provide nutritional counseling and education through one-on-one sessions, as well as group classes. A variety of topics are covered, including weight management, nutrition for health and wellness and vegetarian eating. Practitioners in this field include both licensed dietitians and nutrition counselors. For more information, visit American Dietetic Association or Nutrition Navigator.