Which process includes obtaining an NPI and enrolling in PECOS?

Becoming a Medicare provider requires specific steps to ensure compliance with federal regulations. One essential part of this process is obtaining a National Provider Identifier (NPI), which is a unique identification number for healthcare providers. This number is crucial for billing and has to be used in all claims submitted to Medicare and other payers.

In addition to acquiring an NPI, enrolling in the Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) is necessary. PECOS is an online system that Medicare uses to process enrollment applications for providers, suppliers, and group practices.

Completing both of these steps establishes a provider’s legitimacy and capability to deliver services eligible for Medicare reimbursement. Therefore, the correct answer reflects a fundamental part of how healthcare providers become aligned with Medicare's policies and reimbursement practices.