CHRISTOPHER C LAI MD
NPI 1508905159
Orthopaedic Surgery in Brawley, CA

Q: What is Christopher Lai's NPI number?

The NPI number for Christopher Lai is 1508905159. It was assigned to this individual provider in the NPPES registry on February 6, 2007.

Q: What is Christopher Lai's specialty?

The primary specialty registered for this NPI is Orthopaedic Surgery with taxonomy code 207X00000X.

Q: When was this NPI record last updated?

The NPPES record for Christopher Lai was last updated on February 24, 2021. NPI Profile syncs weekly with the NPPES registry data releases published by CMS. This NPI record was last updated 5 years ago. If this record has changed at CMS more recently, you can request an on-demand re-check against the live CMS registry, directly from this page.

Active since February 06, 2007PECOS Enrolled

52.13/100

CMS Quality Rating

196 W LEGION RD, BRAWLEY, CA 92227(209) 956-7725(760) 344-4309 Get Directions Write a Review

NPPES record last updated: February 24, 2021. Verified against the NPPES registry weekly; last sync: August 09, 2026.

Record update history: Feb 24, 2021, Jun 12, 2019 (2 updates tracked since 2019).

On this page

About Christopher C Lai Md NPPES

Official registry information on file with the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System.

CHRISTOPHER C LAI MD (NPI 1508905159) is an individual orthopaedic surgery provider in Brawley, California, licensed in California (A66701) and active in the NPI registry since February 2007. He is enrolled in Medicare PECOS, maintains 2 additional practice locations, and is a graduate of Chicago College Of Medicine And Surgery (1994).

NPPES Registry Identity

NPI1508905159

Entity TypeIndividualMale

Primary Taxonomy207X00000X

Provider Legal NameCHRISTOPHER C LAICredential: MD

Location Address196 W LEGION RDBrawley, CA 92227-7713

Mailing Address196 W Legion RdBrawley, CA 92227-7713 · (209) 956-7725 · Fax (760) 344-4309

Phone(209) 956-7725

Fax(760) 344-4309

Sole ProprietorNo

Medical School CMSChicago College Of Medicine And SurgeryGraduated 1994

Enumeration DateFebruary 6, 2007

Last NPPES UpdateFebruary 24, 20212 updates tracked since enumeration

NPPES CertifiedFebruary 24, 2021

✔ NPI 1508905159 is a valid, active identifier and passes the ISO check-digit test.

Specialties & Licenses

★ Primary SpecialtyOrthopaedic SurgeryAllopathic & Osteopathic Physicians

Taxonomy Code207X00000X

License✔ Licensed in CA · A66701

Definition

An orthopaedic surgeon is trained in the preservation, investigation and restoration of the form and function of the extremities, spine and associated structures by medical, surgical and physical means. An orthopaedic surgeon is involved with the care of patients whose musculoskeletal problems include congenital deformities, trauma, infections, tumors, metabolic disturbances of the musculoskeletal system, deformities, injuries and degenerative diseases of the spine, hands, feet, knee, hip, shoulder and elbow in children and adults. An orthopaedic surgeon is also concerned with primary and secondary muscular problems and the effects of central or peripheral nervous system lesions of the musculoskeletal system.

196 W LEGION RD, Brawley, CA 92227

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Secondary Practice Locations 2

Location 1751 W Legion Rd Ste 103Brawley, CA 92227-7754 · Phone (209) 956-7725 · Fax (760) 351-4101

Location 21441 W State StEl Centro, CA 92243-2800 · Phone (209) 956-7725 · Fax (760) 336-2076

Other Identifiers 1

Medicaid00A667010CA

Medicare Participation & PECOS CMS

Medicare enrollment, assignment, and ordering and referring status from the CMS PECOS system.

Medicare Enrollment Status

✔

Enrolled in Medicare (PECOS)

Christopher C Lai Md is registered in the CMS Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS).

PECOS PAC ID5193638328

PECOS Enrollment IDI20120316000119

Eligible to Order & Refer✔ Part B Labs & Imaging✔ Durable Medical Equipment✔ Home Health Agency✔ Power Mobility DevicesPer the CMS Ordering and Referring file. Eligibility means Medicare pays claims that this provider orders or refers for these categories.

Areas of Expertise CMS Part B claims 33

Services this provider delivered to Medicare fee-for-service patients, from the CMS Medicare utilization data. Higher counts generally reflect more experience with a service; care delivered outside Medicare is not included.

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with moderate level of decision making, if using time, 30 minutes or more 99214

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously visited our clinic. It involves a comprehensive review of your health and any ongoing treatments. The consultation lasts between 30-39 minutes, allowing enough time to discuss any concerns.

1,617 services554 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid large joint using ultrasound guidance 20611

This procedure involves using ultrasound technology to accurately locate a large joint, usually the knee or shoulder. A needle is then inserted to either extract fluid (aspiration) or inject medication. The ultrasound helps ensure precision and safety.

1,202 services391 patients

Hyaluronan or derivative, hyalgan, supartz or visco-3, for intra-articular injection, per dose J7321

Hyaluronan or derivatives like Hyalgan, Supartz, or Visco-3, are used in intra-articular injections for joint pain relief. They help by improving joint lubrication, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue healing. Each dose is administered directly into the joint space.

852 services198 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with low level od decision making, if using time, 20 minutes or more 99213

This is a routine visit for patients who have already been seen by the healthcare provider. During this approximately 20-29 minute appointment, your health status will be evaluated and any necessary treatments or tests will be discussed. It's a chance to address any health concerns you may have.

737 services454 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit with moderate level of medical decision making, if using time, 45 minutes or more 99204

This is a first-time office or outpatient visit lasting between 45-59 minutes. The healthcare provider evaluates your health, discusses your medical history, and may suggest further tests or treatments. It's an opportunity to ask questions and understand your health better.

336 services336 patients

Injection, triamcinolone acetonide, not otherwise specified, 10 mg J3301

Triamcinolone acetonide is a medication used to reduce inflammation in the body. It's given as a 10 mg injection for conditions like allergies, arthritis, or skin problems. The injection helps to decrease swelling, redness, and itching.

298 services66 patients

X-ray of knee, 3 views 73562

An X-ray of the knee, 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the knee from three different angles. This helps medical professionals to diagnose and monitor conditions like arthritis, fractures, or infections. The process is quick and painless.

260 services231 patients

X-ray of shoulder, minimum of 2 views 73030

An X-ray of the shoulder, with a minimum of 2 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of your shoulder bones. This helps in diagnosing conditions like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. The procedure is quick and painless.

116 services96 patients

Therapy procedure using functional activities 97530

A therapy procedure using functional activities encourages you to use your own body movements in day-to-day tasks to aid recovery. It aims to improve your mobility, strength, and overall health by incorporating therapeutic exercises into your routine.

113 services108 patients

Injection, methylprednisolone acetate, 80 mg J1040

Methylprednisolone acetate is a strong anti-inflammatory medication. It is often given as an 80 mg injection to reduce inflammation and pain. It's commonly used for conditions like arthritis, allergic disorders, or other inflammatory diseases.

89 services81 patients

X-ray of wrist, minimum of 3 views 73110

An X-ray of the wrist, minimum of 3 views, is a diagnostic procedure that uses radiation to create images of your wrist from different angles. This helps detect fractures, infections, or other abnormalities for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

77 services38 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit with low level of medical decision making, if using time, 30 minutes or more 99203

This service involves an initial office or outpatient visit for a new patient. The healthcare professional will spend 30-44 minutes understanding your health history, current issues, and discussing possible treatment plans. It's a comprehensive evaluation to start your healthcare journey.

73 services73 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from large joint 20610

This procedure involves using a needle to remove (aspiration) or introduce (injection) fluid into a large joint like the knee or hip. It can help diagnose conditions, relieve discomfort, or deliver medication directly to the joint.

70 services68 patients

X-ray of hip, 2-3 views 73502

An X-ray of the hip with 2-3 views is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce pictures of the hip joint. These images help in diagnosing conditions like fractures, arthritis, or other abnormalities. The process is quick and painless.

63 services56 patients

Complete ultrasound scan of joint 76881

A complete ultrasound scan of a joint is a non-invasive procedure using sound waves to create images of your joint. It helps identify problems like inflammation, injury, or disease. It's painless, safe, and doesn't involve radiation.

63 services58 patients

Replacement of knee joint, both sides of knee 27447

A bilateral knee joint replacement is a procedure where the damaged parts of both your knee joints are replaced with artificial parts. It aims to relieve pain and improve mobility. The process involves a surgical operation under anesthesia.

56 services54 patients

Injection, ketorolac tromethamine, per 15 mg J1885

Ketorolac tromethamine is a medication administered through injection, often used to manage moderate to severe pain. Each 15 mg dose helps to reduce hormones causing inflammation and pain in the body. It is not recommended for long-term use.

54 services43 patients

Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement 76942

Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement is a technique where sound waves create images that help accurately position the needle during procedures. This method ensures precision, minimizes discomfort, and increases safety.

47 services30 patients

X-ray of ankle, minimum of 3 views 73610

An ankle X-ray is a quick, painless imaging test. It involves capturing at least three different images or 'views' of your ankle using small amounts of radiation. These images help identify any abnormalities or injuries, such as fractures or arthritis.

38 services21 patients

Injection into tendon or ligament 20550

An injection into a tendon or ligament involves placing medication directly into these areas to help reduce inflammation and pain. It's often used for conditions like arthritis or tendonitis. The procedure is quick and usually involves a local anesthetic.

32 services22 patients

X-ray of hand, minimum of 3 views 73130

An X-ray of the hand, minimum of 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the bones in your hand from different angles. This helps in diagnosing fractures, infections, arthritis, or other abnormalities. It's quick and painless.

29 services23 patients

Physician or allowed practitioner certification for medicare-covered home health services under a home health plan of care (patient not present), including contacts with home health agency and review of reports of patient status required by physicians and G0180

This is a service where a doctor or authorized practitioner certifies that you require Medicare-covered home health services. They will communicate with the home health agency and review reports on your health status to ensure you receive appropriate care. This does not involve an in-person visit.

28 services28 patients

X-ray of foot, minimum of 3 views 73630

An X-ray of the foot, minimum of 3 views, is a non-invasive imaging test. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the bones and tissues in your foot. This helps to identify fractures, infections, or other abnormalities. Multiple views ensure a comprehensive examination.

26 services16 patients

Insertion of drug delivery implant into tissue 11981

A drug delivery implant is a small device inserted into your tissue. It releases medication over time, helping to manage certain health conditions. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, causing minimal discomfort.

22 services22 patients

X-ray of lower and sacral spine, 2-3 views 72100

An X-ray of the lower and sacral spine involves capturing images of your lower back area, including the tailbone. This procedure helps in identifying problems like fractures, infections, or deformities. 2-3 different angle views provide a comprehensive picture.

22 services20 patients

Subsequent hospital care with moderate levelof medical decision making, if using time, at least 50 minutes 99233

Follow-up hospital inpatient care per day typically involves a 35-minute check-up by your healthcare provider. This service includes monitoring your health progress, adjusting your treatment plan if needed, and answering any questions you may have about your condition or care.

19 services19 patients

Replacement of thigh bone and hip joint with prosthesis 27130

This procedure, known as hip arthroplasty, involves replacing your damaged thigh bone and hip joint with artificial parts, called a prosthesis. It helps relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.

15 services14 patients

X-ray of elbow, minimum of 3 views 73080

An elbow X-ray with a minimum of 3 views is a non-invasive imaging test. It helps visualize the bones of the elbow from different angles. This aids in diagnosing conditions like fractures or arthritis. The procedure is quick, painless, and usually takes around 15 minutes.

15 services12 patients

Aspiration and/or injection of fluid from medium joint 20605

This procedure involves a needle being inserted into a medium-sized joint, such as a knee or shoulder, to remove (aspirate) excess fluid. Sometimes, medication may also be injected into the joint to reduce inflammation and pain.

14 services13 patients

Removal of joint lining from multiple knee joint compartments using an endoscope 29876

This procedure, called a synovectomy, involves using an endoscope, a small camera, to view your knee joint. The surgeon then removes the inflamed joint lining from several areas of your knee. The goal is to reduce pain and improve joint function.

13 services13 patients

Placement of strapping to hand or finger 29280

Strapping to the hand or finger is a procedure where a medical-grade tape is applied to support injured or weak areas. This helps reduce pain, enhance movement, and prevent further injury. It's commonly used for conditions like sprains or arthritis.

12 services12 patients

Application of elbow to finger cast 29075

An elbow to finger cast is applied to immobilize the arm from the elbow down to the fingers. This aids in healing fractures or severe sprains. The cast, made from plaster or fiberglass, wraps around the arm, providing support and limiting movement to promote recovery.

11 services11 patients

Cast supplies, short arm cast, adult (11 years +), fiberglass Q4010

A short arm cast, made from fiberglass, is often used for fractures or injuries to the wrist or forearm in adults and children over 11. It's lightweight, durable, and can be molded to fit your arm comfortably. This cast allows for limited movement while ensuring proper healing.

11 services11 patients

Physician Visit Costs CMS claims · ZIP area

Typical Medicare office-visit costs in the 92227 ZIP code area, from fee-for-service claims. These are area statistics, not this provider’s prices; actual charges vary by service and coverage.

New Patient

$90.40 typical visit price

range $58.90 – $176.72

Typical copayment $22.60 (range $14.72 – $44.18)

Most-billed visit code 99203

Established Patient

$73.20 typical visit price

range $19.28 – $144.68

Typical copayment $18.30 (range $4.82 – $36.17)

Most-billed visit code 99213

Amounts reflect what Medicare beneficiaries in this ZIP area are typically charged for office visits. Patients with other coverage should check their individual plans.

Medicare Quality Performance CMS QPP · MIPS

Performance in the CMS Quality Payment Program: the MIPS final score across four weighted categories, and the individual quality measures reported to Medicare.

52.13/100

MIPS Final ScoreMerit-based Incentive Payment System · CMS Quality Payment Program

Individually scored

Quality

23.81

Improvement Activities

Cost

19.78

Reported Quality Measures

Advance Care Plan

0%802 patients1/55-star benchmark: 100%

Closing the Referral Loop: Receipt of Specialist Report

0%87 patients1/55-star benchmark: 87%

Documentation of Current Medications in the Medical Record

81%2,685 patients3/55-star benchmark: 100%

Falls: Screening for Future Fall Risk

0%775 patients1/55-star benchmark: 100%

Preventive Care and Screening: Body Mass Index (BMI) Screening and Follow-Up Plan

15%1,512 patients1/55-star benchmark: 100%

Preventive Care and Screening: Screening for Depression and Follow-Up Plan

0%1,527 patients1/55-star benchmark: 97%

Preventive Care and Screening: Screening for High Blood Pressure and Follow-Up Documented

0%2,685 patients1/55-star benchmark: 61%

Preventive Care and Screening: Tobacco Use: Screening and Cessation Intervention

Patients combinedPopulations: 78% · 722 patients

Patients screened: 82% · 722 patients

0%25 patients1/55-star benchmark: 100%

Providers report different measures because they deliver different services; reporting more or less information is not a reflection of quality. Star ratings appear only where CMS assigned them.

Referred Medical Equipment & Supplies CMS DME claims

Durable medical equipment, devices and supplies this provider ordered from DME suppliers for patients, from Medicare fee-for-service claims.

Wrist hand orthosis, wrist extension control cock-up, non molded, prefabricated, off-the-shelf L3908

DME-Orthotic Devices · category DF000N

3 suppliers18 claims18 services$52.83 avg. paid by Medicare

Dollar amounts are the average Medicare paid the supplier per service. They are not the cost to the patient.

Other Providers at the Same Location NPPES

Providers registered at the same practice address, or within the immediate area, according to the NPPES registry.

CHRISTOPHER C LAI MD A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

Surgery

196 W LEGION RD
BRAWLEY, CA 92227

Imperial County (760) 344-9093

Frequently Asked Questions NPPES & CMS

Common questions about this NPI record, answered from the official NPPES registry and CMS datasets shown on this page.

What is Christopher Lai's NPI number?

The NPI number for Christopher Lai is 1508905159. It was assigned to this individual provider in the NPPES registry on February 6, 2007.

Where is Christopher Lai located?

Christopher Lai practices at 196 W Legion Rd, Brawley, CA 92227. The listed phone number is (209) 956-7725.

What is Christopher Lai's specialty?

The primary specialty registered for this NPI is Orthopaedic Surgery with taxonomy code 207X00000X.

Is Christopher Lai enrolled in Medicare?

Yes. Christopher Lai is registered in the Medicare PECOS enrollment system.

When was this NPI record last updated?

The NPPES record for Christopher Lai was last updated on February 24, 2021. NPI Profile syncs weekly with the NPPES registry data releases published by CMS. This NPI record was last updated 5 years ago. If this record has changed at CMS more recently, you can request an on-demand re-check against the live CMS registry, directly from this page.