DR. BENJAMIN B. CLOSE M.D.
NPI 1730185802
Pediatrics - Pediatric Allergy/Immunology in Alexandria, LA
NPI Status: Active since June 23, 2005
Contact Information
201 PECAN PARK AVE
ALEXANDRIA, LA
ZIP 71303
Phone: (318) 445-6221
Fax: (318) 445-5399
- Individual
- Male
- Years of Experience 39
- Pediatrics
- Pediatric Allergy/Immunology
- Accepts Insurance
- Accepts Medicare Approved Payment
- PECOS Enrolled
About BENJAMIN CLOSE
This page provides the complete NPI Profile along with additional information for Benjamin Close, a pediatrician established in Alexandria, Louisiana with a medical specialization in Pediatrics, focusing in pediatric allergy/immunology and more than 39 years of experience. He graduated from Louisiana State University School Of Medicine In Shreveport in 1987. The healthcare provider is registered in the NPI registry with number 1730185802 assigned on June 2005. The practitioner's primary taxonomy code is 2080P0201X with license number MD.019414 (LA). The provider is registered as an individual and his NPI record was last updated one year ago.
- NPI
- 1730185802
- Provider Name
- DR. BENJAMIN B. CLOSE M.D.
- Gender
- Male
- Entity Type
- Individual
- Location Address
- 201 PECAN PARK AVE ALEXANDRIA, LA 71303
- Location Phone
- (318) 445-6221
- Location Fax
- (318) 445-5399
- Mailing Address
- 201 PECAN PARK AVE ALEXANDRIA, LA 71303
- Mailing Phone
- (318) 445-6221
- Mailing Fax
- (318) 445-5399
- Medical School Name
- LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE IN SHREVEPORT
- Graduation Year
- 1987
- Is Sole Proprietor?
- Yes
- Enumeration Date
- 06-23-2005
- Last Update Date
- 10-08-2025
- Code Navigator
A pediatrician like Benjamin Close is a physician who has completed a pediatric residency and is board-certified or board-eligible in a pediatric specialty. Pediatric care providers are trained to care for newborns, infants, children and adolescents. A pediatrician could perform physical exams, manage vaccinations, monitor development milestones, diagnose illnesses, infections, injuries or other health problems, etc.
Location Map
Specialty - Primary Taxonomy
The NPI enumerator requires providers to submit at least one taxonomy code. A taxonomy code is a unique 10-character code that describes the healthcare provider type, classification, and the area of specialization. There could be only one primary taxonomy code per NPI record. For individual NPIs the license data is associated to the taxonomy code.
- Classification
Pediatrics Pediatric Allergy/Immunology
- Taxonomy Code
- 2080P0201X
- Type
- Allopathic & Osteopathic Physicians
- License No.
- MD.019414
- License State
- LA
- Taxonomy Description
- A pediatrician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, allergic reactions, and immunologic diseases in children.
Secondary Taxonomies
The provider has reported to the NPI enumerator additional taxonomy codes. Multiple taxonomy codes may represent subspecialties or other areas of specialization the provider maybe licensed to practice.
| No. | Taxonomy Code | Type | Classification / Specialization |
License No. (State) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 174400000X | Other Service Providers | Specialist | 019414 (LA) |
| 2 | 207R00000X | Allopathic & Osteopathic Physicians | Internal Medicine | MD.019414 (LA) |
Insurance Plans Accepted
According to publicly available information the provider might be accepting the following health plans from these health insurance companies:
- Blue Max 70/50 $6700 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits HSA Eligible - PPO
- Blue Max 80/60 $1500 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits - PPO
- Blue Max Copay (PCP) 50/50 $3300 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits - PPO
- Blue Max Copay (PCP) 50/50 $7500 Standardized HSA Eligible - PPO
- Blue Max Copay (PCP) 60/40 $6000 Standardized - PPO
- Blue Max Copay (PCP) 75/55 $2000 Standardized - PPO
- Blue Saver 60/40 $6100 - PPO
- Blue Saver 90/70 $3400 - PPO
- CHRISTUS Bronze (2 Free PCP Visits, $0 Preferred Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Bronze + Dental & Vision (2 Free PCP Visits, $0 Preferred Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Bronze Essential - HMO
- CHRISTUS Bronze Essential (2 Free PCP Visits, $0 Preferred Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Bronze Essential + Dental & Vision (2 Free PCP Visits, $0 Preferred Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Bronze Essential Plus - HMO
- CHRISTUS Catastrophic (3 Free PCP visits) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold + Dental & Vision + Fitness ($0 Deductible, $5 PCP, $0 Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold + Fitness ($0 Deductible, $5 PCP, $0 Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold Essential - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold Essential ($0 Rx Deductible, $5 PCP, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold Essential + Dental & Vision ($0 Rx Deductible, $5 PCP, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold Essential Plus - HMO
- CHRISTUS Gold Plus - HMO
- CHRISTUS Silver Essential - HMO
- CHRISTUS Silver Essential 70 ($5 PCP, $0 Preferred Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Silver Essential 70 + Dental & Vision ($5 PCP, $0 Preferred Generic Rx, $0 Virtual Urgent Care) - HMO
- CHRISTUS Silver Essential Plus - HMO
- CHRISTUS Standard Expanded Bronze - HMO
- Blue Connect 80/60 $3200 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits (L) - POS
- Blue Connect 80/60 $3200 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits (N) - POS
- Blue Connect 80/60 $3200 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits (S) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 50/50 $7500 Standardized (H) HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 50/50 $7500 Standardized (L) HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 50/50 $7500 Standardized (N) HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 50/50 $7500 Standardized (S) HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 60/40 $6000 Standardized (L) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 60/40 $6000 Standardized (N) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 60/40 $6000 Standardized (S) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 75/55 $2000 Standardized (H) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 75/55 $2000 Standardized (L) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 75/55 $2000 Standardized (N) - POS
- Blue Connect Copay (PCP) 75/55 $2000 Standardized (S) - POS
- Blue POS 60/40 $6500 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue POS 80/60 $3200 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits - POS
- Blue POS 90/70 $9900 with 2 $0 PCP Virtual Visits HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue POS Copay (PCP) 50/50 $7500 Standardized HSA Eligible - POS
- Blue POS Copay (PCP) 60/40 $6000 Standardized - POS
- Blue POS Copay (PCP) 75/55 $2000 Standardized - POS
Specific plan information not avaialable, please contact the provider to verify if your insurance plan is accepted.
Specific plan information not avaialable, please contact the provider to verify if your insurance plan is accepted.
*Please verify directly with this provider to make sure your insurance plan is currently accepted.
Additional Identifiers
The NPI Enumerator encourages providers to submit additional identifiers with their NPI application although the submission of this information is optional. The additional identifier(s) section includes other numbers or codes currently or formerly used as an identifier for the provider by other public healthcare entities. The identifiers may include UPIN, NSC, OSCAR, DEA, Medicaid State or PIN identification numbers.
| Identifier | Type / Code | Identifier State | Identifier Issuer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1951650 | MEDICAID (05) | LA |
Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status
Benjamin Close 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.
Benjamin Close 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: 6800088204
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: I20101004000894
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
Provider Referred Orders for Durable Medical Equipment, Devices & Supplies
The following list reflects the services, supplies or durable medical equipment ordered by this provider to a DME supplier on behalf of patients. The information below is derived from Medicare claims data and reflects the BETOS category, HCPCS code information and the number times each service was submitted under the Medicare fee-for-service program.
Durable Medical Equipment
DME-Other DME (DE017N)
Supplies for maintenance of non-insulin drug infusion catheter, per week (list drugs separately) (HCPCS:A4221)
8 DME suppliers used 204 Medicare Claims 749 Services Paid
DME-Other DME (DE000N)
Administration set, with small volume nonfiltered pneumatic nebulizer, disposable (HCPCS:A7003)
2 DME suppliers used 15 Medicare Claims 28 Services Paid
DME-Other DME (DE000N)
Nebulizer, with compressor (HCPCS:E0570)
3 DME suppliers used 21 Medicare Claims 21 Services Paid
DME-Other DME (DE000N)
Ambulatory infusion pump, mechanical, reusable, for infusion 8 hours or greater (HCPCS:E0779)
3 DME suppliers used 22 Medicare Claims 22 Services Paid
DME-Other DME (DE000N)
Supplies for external non-insulin drug infusion pump, syringe type cartridge, sterile, each (HCPCS:K0552)
10 DME suppliers used 222 Medicare Claims 1139 Services Paid
DME-Other DME (DE000N)
Pharmacy dispensing fee for inhalation drug(s); per 30 days (HCPCS:Q0513)
9 DME suppliers used 58 Medicare Claims 58 Services Paid
Unknown
Treatment-Injections and Infusions (nononcologic) (RI008N)
Injection, immune globulin (privigen), intravenous, non-lyophilized (e.g., liquid), 500 mg (HCPCS:J1459)
2 DME suppliers used 22 Medicare Claims 2260 Services Paid
Treatment-Injections and Infusions (nononcologic) (RI008N)
Injection, immune globulin (hizentra), 100 mg (HCPCS:J1559)
8 DME suppliers used 221 Medicare Claims 86900 Services Paid
Treatment-Injections and Infusions (nononcologic) (RI008N)
Injection, immune globulin, (gamunex-c/gammaked), non-lyophilized (e.g., liquid), 500 mg (HCPCS:J1561)
1 DME suppliers used 13 Medicare Claims 780 Services Paid
Treatment-Injections and Infusions (nononcologic) (RI008N)
Injection, immune globulin, (gammagard liquid), non-lyophilized, (e.g., liquid), 500 mg (HCPCS:J1569)
1 DME suppliers used 13 Medicare Claims 1040 Services Paid
Treatment-Injections and Infusions (nononcologic) (RI008N)
Injection, immune globulin, intravenous, non-lyophilized (e.g., liquid), not otherwise specified, 500 mg (HCPCS:J1599)
2 DME suppliers used 13 Medicare Claims 1040 Services Paid
Treatment-Chemotherapy (RH012N)
Services, supplies and accessories used in the home under the medicare intravenous immune globulin (ivig) demonstration (HCPCS:Q2052)
3 DME suppliers used 39 Medicare Claims 39 Services Paid
Drugs Administered Through DME
DME-Drugs Administered Through DME (DG006N)
Albuterol, inhalation solution, fda-approved final product, non-compounded, administered through dme, unit dose, 1 mg (HCPCS:J7613)
9 DME suppliers used 63 Medicare Claims 7418 Services Paid
DME-Drugs Administered Through DME (DG000N)
Budesonide, inhalation solution, fda-approved final product, non-compounded, administered through dme, unit dose form, up to 0.5 mg (HCPCS:J7626)
3 DME suppliers used 31 Medicare Claims 1860 Services Paid
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.
Administration of non-hormonal anti-neoplastic chemotherapy under skin or into muscle
Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 10-19 minutes
Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 20-29 minutes
Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes
Injection of drug or substance under skin or into muscle
Injection, omalizumab, 5 mg
Management using the results of remote vital sign monitoring per calendar month, each additional 20 minutes
Management using the results of remote vital sign monitoring per calendar month, first 20 minutes
New patient office or other outpatient visit, 15-29 minutes
New patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-44 minutes
New patient office or other outpatient visit, 45-59 minutes
Professional service for multiple injections of allergen
Professional service for preparation and provision of 1 or more antigens
Remote monitoring of physiologic parameters, initial set-up and patient education on use of equipment
Remote monitoring of physiologic parameters, initial supply of devices with daily recordings or programmed alerts transmission, each 30 days
Test for allergy using allergenic extract
Test to measure expiratory airflow and volume
Test to measure expiratory airflow and volume changes before and after medication administration
This procedure involves giving anti-cancer drugs, which don't contain hormones, into the muscle or under the skin. These drugs help to stop the growth of cancer cells. The process is usually quick and done by a healthcare professional.
This service was performed 230 times for 32 patientsThis is a routine check-up for patients who have previously seen the doctor. During this 10-19 minute visit, the doctor will review your health status, discuss any concerns, and manage ongoing treatments or medications. It's a chance to ensure your health is on track.
This service was performed 28 times for 27 patientsThis 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.
This service was performed 576 times for 385 patientsThis 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.
This service was performed 151 times for 113 patientsThis procedure involves administering medication directly under the skin or into a muscle. A small needle is used to inject the drug, allowing it to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. It's a common method for delivering a variety of medications.
This service was performed 149 times for 26 patientsOmalizumab is a medication given via injection. It's used to treat severe allergic asthma and chronic hives when other treatments fail. The 5mg dose is determined by your doctor based on your weight and condition.
This service was performed 4,905 times for 13 patientsThis service involves analyzing your vital signs, like heart rate and blood pressure, remotely collected over a month. Each additional 20 minutes spent on management refers to extra time spent reviewing, interpreting your data, and planning your care. It's a critical part of ensuring your wellbeing.
This service was performed 44 times for 24 patientsThis service involves reviewing and managing your health data, which is remotely monitored and collected. Your vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure are tracked regularly throughout the month. The first 20 minutes of this data analysis per month is included in this service.
This service was performed 85 times for 30 patientsThis service involves an initial visit to the doctor's office or other outpatient setting. It typically lasts between 15-29 minutes. The doctor will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and discuss your health concerns. It's a chance to establish your health baseline and address any immediate medical issues.
This service was performed 18 times for 18 patientsThis 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.
This service was performed 48 times for 48 patientsThis 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.
This service was performed 59 times for 59 patientsThe professional service for multiple injections of allergens involves administering small doses of specific allergens into your body. This is done to help your immune system become less sensitive to them, reducing your allergic reaction over time. It's a safe, effective way to manage allergies.
This service was performed 212 times for 13 patientsThis service involves the creation and supply of antigens, substances that stimulate your immune system to fight diseases. These antigens can be used in vaccines or allergy tests to help your body build defenses against specific health threats.
This service was performed 761 times for 26 patientsRemote monitoring of physiologic parameters involves using special equipment to track vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure from a distance. The initial set-up includes installing the device and teaching the patient how to use it correctly for accurate readings.
This service was performed 16 times for 16 patientsThis service involves using devices to remotely track body functions like heart rate or blood pressure. These devices, provided initially, record data daily or send alerts if readings are abnormal. The service is renewed every 30 days.
This service was performed 30 times for 16 patientsAn allergy test with allergenic extract is a diagnostic method to identify substances causing allergic reactions. Small amounts of common allergens are introduced to your body, usually through skin pricks or blood tests. Your body's response helps determine your allergies.
This service was performed 3,405 times for 58 patientsThis test, known as spirometry, assesses how well your lungs work. It measures how much air you can inhale, how much you can exhale and how quickly you can exhale. It's non-invasive and helps diagnose conditions like asthma or COPD.
This service was performed 215 times for 211 patientsThis procedure measures how air flows in and out of your lungs. It's done before and after medication to see if the treatment improves your breathing. It's a simple, non-invasive test that involves breathing into a device called a spirometer.
This service was performed 31 times for 31 patientsFind 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. Benjamin Close is affiliated with the following medical facilities:
| Hospital Name | Address | Phone | Hospital Type | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHRISTUS ST FRANCES CABRINI HOSPITAL | 3330 MASONIC DRIVE ALEXANDRIA, LA 71301 | (318) 487-1122 | Acute Care Hospitals | |
| LASALLE GENERAL HOSPITAL | 187 NINTH ST/HWY 84 WEST JENA, LA 71342 | (318) 992-9200 | Acute Care Hospitals | |
| BYRD REGIONAL HOSPITAL | 1020 FERTITTA BLVD LEESVILLE, LA 71446 | (337) 239-9041 | Acute Care Hospitals | |
| HARDTNER MEDICAL CENTER | 1102 N PINE ROAD OLLA, LA 71465 | (318) 495-3131 | Critical Access Hospitals |
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NPI NPI Number Validation
How NPI Validation Works
The NPI validation process uses the ISO-standard Luhn algorithm, a mathematical "handshake", to ensure that a provider's 10-digit ID is authentic and free of common typing errors.
To verify the NPI 1730185802, we treat the final digit (2) as the Check Digit—the target answer we need to reach. The process begins by taking the first nine digits and adding a constant value of 24, which accounts for the "80840" prefix required for all U.S. health identifiers. We then double every other digit starting from the right and sum the individual digits of those results together. For this specific NPI, that total comes to 58. The final step is to find the difference between that total and the next multiple of ten (60 - 58 = 2).
Digit-by-digit view
Use the first nine digits for the calculation. Starting from the right, double every other digit. The last digit is the check digit and is not part of the calculation.
Step 1: Double every other digit from the right
Starting with the rightmost digit of the first nine digits, double every other value. If doubling creates a two-digit number, add those digits together.
Step 2: Add all digits plus the NPI constant
Add the transformed values, the unchanged digits, and the constant 24.
Step 3: Find the amount needed to reach the next multiple of 10
The next multiple of ten after 58 is 60. The difference is the calculated check digit.
Other Providers at the Same Location
The following 3 providers are registered at the same or a nearby location.
ALEXANDRIA, LA 71303
Frequently Asked Questions
The NPI number assigned to this healthcare provider is 1730185802, enumerated as an "individual" on June 23, 2005.
The provider is located at 201 PECAN PARK AVE ALEXANDRIA, LA 71303 and the phone number is (318) 445-6221.
Pediatrics with taxonomy code 2080P0201X and a focus in Pediatric Allergy/Immunology.
The provider might be accepting Accepts: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, CHRISTUS. Please consult your insurance carrier or call the provider to verify.
Benjamin Close is affiliated with: CHRISTUS ST FRANCES CABRINI HOSPITAL, LASALLE GENERAL HOSPITAL, BYRD REGIONAL HOSPITAL and HARDTNER MEDICAL CENTER.