In order to obtain a practice code number from the Practice Code Number System (PCNS), healthcare service providers have to be registered as an independent Practitioner, Practice or Agency with the relevant statutory council. The applicant’s scope of practice must also be corroborated by the BHF in accordance with the accreditation requirements.

In order to receive a practice number, service providers need to do the following:

• Visit the PCNS website https://www.pcns.co.za and download relevant application forms
• Once completed, all forms and required documentation should be returned to the BHF offices by registered mail or overnight courier, together with the applicable registration fee (see 2020 rates online) or proof of payment of the applicable fee via bank EFT.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: During the COVID-19 lockdown period, all forms together with proof of bank EFT payment can be sent via email to pcns_admin@bhfglobal.com

Upon successful completion of the accreditation process, a unique practice number will be issued by the BHF and awarded to the applicant. This practice number must appear on all official documentation and communications.

On average, the accreditation process takes between 10 to 20 working days, provided that the application form is completed in full and all supporting documentation has been submitted.

Once the practice number has been issued, all medical schemes on the PCNS database will be notified electronically. The PCNS registration must be renewed annually by 31 March.

Secure online payment of annual fees for the renewal of practice numbers is an important enhancement and a newly launched feature of the PCNS 2.0 website service offering.

Annual renewals are required to keep service provider information up-to-date and ensure ongoing access to and use of practice numbers, including all associated services. However, the procedure to effect this renewal was a predominantly manual process and an administrative burden; one which members often faulted.

As of April 2020, the new e-commerce feature not only streamlines and fast-tracks a very important part of the PCN process, it also ensures database integrity.  Healthcare service providers simply login to the PCNS website, update all required account information and effect online payment of annual fees.

CLICK ON THE DOCUMENTATION BELOW to find out more about the registration process on PCNS 2.0

Effective 1 May 2021, the new PCNS contact centre number will be 087 210 0500. If you require more information, visit https://www.pcns.co.za or get in touch with the PCNS team via email at clientservices@bhfglobal.com.