DR. NICOLE R HOWELL MD
NPI 1679778815
Pathology - Anatomic Pathology & Clinical Pathology in Urbana, IL

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Nicole Howell is registered with Medicare and accepts claims assignment, this means the provider accepts the approved amount for the cost of rendered services as full payment. Participating providers may not charge beneficiaries more than the approved amount for their services. Please keep in mind that beneficiaries still have to pay a coinsurance or copayment amount for a visit or service.

Nicole Howell is enrolled in PECOS and is eligible to order or refer health care services for Medicare patients. The provider is eligible to order or refer: Part B Clinical Laboratory and Imaging, Durable Medical Equipment (DME), a Home Health Agency (HHA) and Power Mobility Devices.

What is PECOS?
PECOS is the online Medicare enrollment management system or Provider, Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System. The PECOS system is a database of providers who have registered with CMS as providers or suppliers. PECOS is the primary source of information about verified Medicare professionals. Providers that want to participate in this program need to enroll in PECOS with their NPI number to avoid denied claims.

• Is the provider registered in PECOS? Yes

• PECOS PAC ID: 648363812

  What is the PECOS Associate Control ID?
  A PAC ID is a unique 10-digit number assigned to an individual or organization healthcare provider in PECOS. The PAC ID is used to link together all the provider information, like tax identification numbers and organizational names. A PAC ID can be connected to multiple Enrollment IDs if an individual or organization has enrolled in PECOS more than once.

• PECOS Enrollment ID: I20100519000457

  What is the Provider Enrollment ID?
  The Enrollment ID is a unique alphanumeric 15-digit code assigned to each new provider's PECOS enrollment application. The Enrollment ID is used to link together all the provider enrollment information like enrollment type, state, provider specialty, and reassignment of benefits.

• Accepts Medicare Assignment? Yes

  What does it mean "accepts medicare assignment"?
  When a provider accepts Medicare assignment, the provider agrees to be paid directly by Medicare and to accept the payment amount approved by Medicare. Additionally, the provider agrees to not bill patients for more than the Medicare deductible and coinsurance amounts.
  A provider who doesn't accept assignment may charge you up to 15% over the Medicare-approved amount. This is known as the limiting charge. You may have to pay this amount, or it may be covered by another insurer.

• Eligible to Order or Refer Part B Clinical Laboratory and Imaging: Yes

• Eligible to Order or Refer Durable Medical Equipment (DMEPOS): Yes

• Eligible to Order or Refer a Home Health Agency (HHA): Yes

• Eligible to Order or Refer Power Mobility Devices: Yes

Areas of Expertise

The following services and procedures, recently provided to Medicare patients, illustrate the range of care this provider offers. This list reflects the variety of services available to all patients visiting the practice and is based on 2022 Medicare dataset. In general, the more frequently a provider treats specific conditions or performs particular procedures, the more experienced they become in addressing similar patient needs. The provider has delivered many of the services listed below to Medicare patients. Please note that this list does not include services provided to patients who are not covered by Medicare.

Albumin (protein) level

The Albumin Level test measures the amount of albumin, a vital protein made by the liver, in your blood. This protein helps keep fluid in your bloodstream so it doesn't leak into other tissues. It's also vital for tissue growth and healing. Low or high levels can indicate certain health issues.

This service was performed 11 times for 11 patients

Blood count, hemoglobin

A blood count, specifically hemoglobin, is a standard test that measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. This test helps assess your overall health and detect a variety of disorders such as anemia or polycythemia.

This service was performed 100 times for 23 patients

Blood creatinine level

A blood creatinine level test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is a waste product that your body produces when it uses energy. High levels may indicate that your kidneys aren't working properly. This test is often used to monitor kidney health.

This service was performed 34 times for 23 patients

Blood potassium level

A blood potassium level test measures the amount of potassium in your blood. Potassium is a vital mineral for the body, helping nerves and muscles, especially the heart, to function properly. Abnormal levels can cause health issues like irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, or numbness.

This service was performed 13 times for 12 patients

Blood test, basic group of blood chemicals (calcium, total)

A basic group blood test measures the levels of certain chemicals in your blood, including calcium. This helps assess your overall health and detect potential problems. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of blood from your arm, which is then analyzed in a lab.

This service was performed 1,312 times for 874 patients

Blood test, comprehensive group of blood chemicals

A comprehensive group of blood chemicals test, also known as a comprehensive metabolic panel, is a blood test that measures your sugar level, electrolyte and fluid balance, kidney function, and liver function. This helps to check your body's overall health.

This service was performed 2,426 times for 1,249 patients

Calcium level, total

A total calcium level test measures the amount of calcium in your blood. Calcium is essential for body functions like bone formation, nerve signal transmission, and muscle contraction. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like bone disease or kidney disorders.

This service was performed 12 times for 12 patients

Cell examination of specimen, selective cellular enhancement technique

Cell examination of a specimen using selective cellular enhancement technique is a lab process that improves the visibility of certain cells in a sample. It helps in identifying abnormalities or diseases. The process is non-invasive, safe, and aids in accurate diagnosis.

This service was performed 69 times for 54 patients

Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cell, platelets), automated test

A complete blood cell count (CBC) is an automated test that measures different components of the blood, including red cells, white cells, and platelets. It helps assess overall health, detect disorders like anemia or infection, and monitor medical treatments.

This service was performed 136 times for 117 patients

Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cell, platelets), automated test and automated differential white blood cell count

A Complete Blood Cell Count is a common test that measures various components of the blood, including red cells (carry oxygen), white cells (fight infection), and platelets (help blood clot). An automated test ensures accuracy. The differential count provides detailed information about white cell types.

This service was performed 2,604 times for 1,208 patients

Evaluation of fine needle aspirate

Evaluation of fine needle aspirate is a diagnostic procedure where a thin needle is used to collect cells from a lump or mass. This sample is then examined under a microscope to determine the nature of the lump, whether it's benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

This service was performed 40 times for 28 patients

Evaluation of fine needle aspirate with interpretation and report

This procedure involves using a thin needle to collect a small sample from an abnormal area or lump. The sample is then examined under a microscope to identify any potential issues. A report of the findings is provided for further analysis.

This service was performed 53 times for 42 patients

Flow cytometry technique for dna or cell analysis, 16 or more markers

Flow cytometry is a method used to measure and analyze cells. It uses a beam of light to detect up to 16 or more markers on cells, helping to identify their type, function, or abnormalities. This technique aids in diagnosing various health conditions.

This service was performed 23 times for 23 patients

Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample

This procedure involves inserting a small needle into a vein, typically in your arm, to collect a blood sample. It's a quick and simple process to help diagnose or monitor health conditions. You may feel a small prick, but discomfort is minimal.

This service was performed 5,108 times for 1,992 patients

Lipase (fat enzyme) level

A Lipase Level test measures the amount of lipase in your blood. Lipase is an enzyme that helps your body digest fats. High or low levels can indicate problems with your pancreas, such as pancreatitis or other conditions. This test helps your doctor diagnose and monitor these conditions.

This service was performed 44 times for 42 patients

Liver enzyme (sgot), level

A Liver Enzyme (SGOT) Level test is a simple blood test used to measure the amount of certain enzymes in your blood. These enzymes are normally found in liver cells. If the liver is damaged or diseased, these enzymes can leak into your bloodstream, indicating potential liver issues.

This service was performed 105 times for 87 patients

Liver enzyme (sgpt), level

A liver enzyme (SGPT) level test is a blood test that checks the health of your liver. SGPT is an enzyme found in your liver cells. If your liver is damaged or inflamed, SGPT can leak into your bloodstream, raising the enzyme level. This test helps identify liver diseases early.

This service was performed 108 times for 90 patients

Magnesium level

A magnesium level test is a simple blood test that measures the amount of magnesium in your body. Magnesium is a crucial mineral that helps your nerves, muscles, and heart function properly. The test can help detect health conditions like kidney disease or malnutrition.

This service was performed 408 times for 245 patients

Pap test, evaluation of fine needle aspirate, immediate, each additional evaluation episode

A Pap test is a procedure that checks for abnormal cells in the body, which could indicate a serious condition. The evaluation of a fine needle aspirate is a process where a small sample is taken with a thin needle for examination. This can be done multiple times for a thorough analysis.

This service was performed 44 times for 17 patients

Pathology examination of tissue using a microscope, intermediate complexity

A pathology examination of tissue with intermediate complexity involves studying a small sample of your body tissue under a microscope. This helps in identifying any abnormal cells or signs of disease. It's a detailed process requiring expert analysis to ensure accurate results.

This service was performed 799 times for 478 patients

Pathology examination of tissue using a microscope, moderately high complexity

A pathology examination of tissue with moderate complexity involves a detailed study of a small tissue sample from your body. Using a microscope, experts analyze the tissue's structure and cells to identify any abnormalities. This helps in diagnosing various health conditions accurately.

This service was performed 81 times for 48 patients

Pathology examination of tissue using a microscope, moderately low complexity

A pathology examination of tissue, moderately low complexity, involves studying a small sample of your body tissue under a microscope. It helps to identify any abnormal cells or diseases. It's a routine procedure, not complex, and provides crucial insights for your diagnosis.

This service was performed 39 times for 34 patients

Preparation of tissue for examination by removing any calcium present

This procedure involves treating tissue samples to remove any calcium, which can interfere with the examination. The tissue is soaked in a special solution that safely dissolves the calcium, leaving the tissue intact for accurate analysis. This helps in making precise diagnoses.

This service was performed 15 times for 15 patients

Red blood cell concentration measurement

Red blood cell concentration measurement is a routine blood test that assesses the number of red blood cells in your blood. These cells carry oxygen throughout your body. The test can help identify conditions like anemia or dehydration. It's a simple, quick, and relatively painless procedure.

This service was performed 76 times for 21 patients

Red blood count automated, with additional calculations

An automated red blood cell count is a laboratory test that counts the number of red blood cells in your blood. This test also includes additional calculations to measure the size, volume, and hemoglobin concentration of these cells. It helps to identify any abnormalities in your blood.

This service was performed 41 times for 34 patients

Special stained specimen slides to examine tissue, each additional procedure

Special stained specimen slides are used to analyze tissue in detail. In this process, extra procedures may be needed for a more thorough examination. These involve applying special stains to the tissue on slides, enhancing specific elements for closer study.

This service was performed 159 times for 52 patients

Special stained specimen slides to examine tissue, initial procedure

This procedure involves the use of specially stained slides to examine tissue samples. The initial process involves obtaining a small tissue sample from your body. This sample is then placed on a slide and stained with special dyes to highlight different structures and elements. The stained slide is then examined under a microscope to help diagnose any potential health issues.

This service was performed 136 times for 114 patients

Special stained specimen slides to identify organisms including interpretation and report

This service involves coloring specimen slides in a special way to help identify organisms. The colors make different parts of the organism stand out. Afterward, a detailed interpretation and report on the findings are provided.

This service was performed 15 times for 13 patients

Urinalysis using microscope

Urinalysis with a microscope is a test that helps detect issues in your body. A small sample of your urine is examined under a microscope. This allows the detection of substances not visible to the naked eye, aiding in diagnosing various health conditions.

This service was performed 203 times for 162 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The typical physician office visit costs for Medicare beneficiaries in this area are: $31.86 for a new patient copayment and $24.31 for an established patient copayment.

The pricing information below displays the copayment minimum, maximum and average amount that patients under Medicare are charged when visiting this provider as a new or established patient. Please keep in mind that these prices are just for reference purposes, and the actual prices charged by the provider might be different.

For patients covered under private health plans the prices below are also useful as healthcare pricing for private insurance is usually established as a function of Medicare prices. Private insurance covered patients should check their individual plans to determine the exact pricing.

The prices below reflect the costs for new and established patients in the 61801 ZIP code area.

* The physician office visit costs information is generated by statistical analysis of similar providers in the same geographical area. The pricing information above IS NOT the amount charged by this provider.

Find Provider Hospital Affiliations - Privileges

Doctors and physicians must apply for hospital privileges to treat patients at hospitals. Find out if your doctor has privileges to practice at your preferred hospital by using the hospital affiliation information below based on recent medical claims.

Hospital affiliation is identified through self-reporting data, inpatient, outpatient, physician and ancillary service claims linked by the medical claims NPI number and place of service code. Additionally, to further determine provider hospital affiliation the clinician must have provided services to at least three patients on three different dates in the last 12 months. Nicole Howell is affiliated with the following medical facilities:

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NPI Validation Check Digit Calculation

The following table explains the step by step NPI number validation process using the ISO standard Luhn algorithm.

The NPI number 1679778815 is valid because the calculated check digit 5 using the Luhn validation algorithm matches the last digit of the original NPI number.

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The following 20 providers are registered at the same or nearby location.

Frequently Asked Questions