The health care providers taxonomy codes are unique alphanumeric codes, ten characters in length. The codes are divided into three distinct "levels": Provider Grouping, Classification, and Area of Specialization. The code set levels are organized to allow navigating down from generic classification to a provider's most specific level of specialization. The code set is designed for use in electronic health care transactions mandated under HIPAA.
Taxonomy codes are self-selected by the health care providers. Their specialty is defined based on their education level and training. Taxonomy codes do not specify the actual services rendered by the health care provider.