NAPPI Codes – How to Obtain & Use Them
- mcpharma01
- 18 hours ago
- 4 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
What is a NAPPI Code?
Code Structure & Format
Governance & Stakeholders
Application Process & Timelines
Benefits of Accurate Coding
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
MC Pharma's Support Services
Practical Example
Frequently Asked Questions
References
Introduction
NAPPI codes (National Pharmaceutical Product Index identifiers) underpin every private-sector reimbursement claim in South Africa.
Custodied by MediKredit and governed through the NAPPI Advisory Board, the system has been the single accepted product standard since the early 1990s.
This article demystifies code structure, application pathways, common pitfalls, and shows where MC Pharma fits into the process from dossier compilation to medical-scheme engagement.
What Is a NAPPI Code?
A NAPPI code is a unique identifier for any pharmaceutical, surgical, medical-device or healthcare consumable product in South Africa’s private sector.
The code facilitates price adjudication, stock control, claims switching and supply-chain analytics.
NAPPI is the only product code recognised by all medical schemes and administrators when processing claims.
Code Structure & Format
Seven digits split 6-3 – the first six digits denote the specific product, while the last three digits indicate pack size (e.g., 712719-001).
No therapeutic meaning – unlike ATC or GMDN, the digits are purely numeric and sequential; therapeutic class is captured separately in pricing files.
Governance & Stakeholders
Entity | Role |
Allocates and maintains the master NAPPI file; publishes a daily public-domain extract. | |
Industry forum of schemes, hospitals and clinicians providing oversight. | |
Issues guidance on correct coding for claim funding. |
Application Process & Timelines
Determine eligibility – only the local manufacturer or authorised importer may apply.
Compile application pack – This pack includes completed application form together with Ridout information such as PIL/PI, Artwork, price incl. and excl. VAT and more.
Submit to MediKredit – Submit the forms/documents and fee payable to MediKredit. NAPPI codes are usually issued within ten working days for straightforward items.
Discovery / scheme review – funders run health-technology assessments before confirming reimbursement; expect 6–10 days for surgical items and up to six months for novel technologies.
Public-domain listing – once approved, the code appears in the daily NAPPI file, enabling pharmacies to dispense and claim.
Benefits of Accurate Coding
Faster reimbursement – correct codes prevent claim rejections and cash-flow delays.
Transparent pricing – uniform identifiers allow schemes to benchmark and manage reference-price lists.
Regulatory data harmony – NAPPI integrates with SAHPRA registration numbers and GMDN descriptors, streamlining audits.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Wrong pack digit trio – mismatching pack size digits leads to pricing mismatches; always verify against the MediKredit search facility.
Unregistered importer – only the product’s legal holder may apply; third-party applications are rejected.
Assuming automatic reimbursement – a code enables billing but does not guarantee scheme funding; negotiate formularies separately.
Contact our Regulatory Affairs unit to discuss how to avoid pitfalls.
MC Pharma’s Support Services
Gap analysis – cross-check dossier, pricing and clinical evidence against NAB (NAPPI® Advisory Board) and Discovery requirements.
Application drafting – prepare NAPPI forms, documents that need to be attached and pricing spreadsheets.
Scheme liaison – engage PBM teams to secure formulary listing and agreed reference prices.
Life-cycle maintenance – monitor annual price-increase submissions and pack changes.
Practical Example
When FUTURELIFE® Smart food™ (500 g) obtained NAPPI 712719-001 it became claimable under certain scheme rules, but reimbursement still depends on plan type and savings available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who assigns NAPPI codes?
MediKredit Integrated Healthcare Solutions is the sole custodian and issuing authority.
How long does it take to get a code?
Straightforward “me-too” items are typically coded within ten working days, while novel technologies may take longer due to funder HTA review.
Do NAPPI codes guarantee reimbursement?
No. A code enables electronic claims but each medical scheme decides whether—and at what rate—to fund the product.
Can distributors apply on behalf of manufacturers?
Only the local manufacturer or authorised importer (the highest authority in the supply chain) may lodge an application.
What happens if my pack size changes?
You must apply for a new three-digit pack suffix; using the wrong suffix will cause claim rejections.
References
Council for Medical Schemes. (2024). CMScript 10: Coding and funding of claims. (medicalschemes.co.za)
Discovery Health. (2025). NAPPI code registration and review process 2025 [PDF].
MediKredit. (2024). NAPPI® – Products & Services page. (medikredit.co.za)
MediKredit. (2024). NAPPI® code allocation policies and processes. (medikredit.co.za)
National Pharmaceutical Product Index. (2024, 15 Feb). Wikipedia entry. (en.wikipedia.org)
Competition Commission of South Africa. (2019). Health Market Inquiry submission – MediKredit [PDF]. (compcom.co.za)
Futurelife®. (2025). Certification – NAPPI code page. (futurelife.co.za)
Petsana, V. (2025, Jun). The NAPPI® system: South Africa’s unsung hero in healthcare [LinkedIn Article]. (linkedin.com)
MediKredit. (2025). NAPPI® search facility. (medikredit.co.za)
Need assistance preparing your NAPPI application?
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