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provider_search

Search the NPI provider directory to find healthcare providers by name, specialty, or location for medical billing and claims processing.

Instructions

Search the NPI provider directory. Find healthcare providers by name, specialty, or location.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
firstNameNo
lastNameNo
organizationNameNo
taxonomyNoProvider taxonomy/specialty code
cityNo
stateNo2-letter state code
limitNoMax results (default 10, max 50)
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It mentions the tool is a search function but lacks details on behavioral traits: no information on rate limits, authentication needs, pagination, error handling, or what the search returns (e.g., list of providers). This is inadequate for a tool with 7 parameters and no output schema.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is concise and front-loaded: two sentences with zero waste. The first sentence states the core purpose, and the second elaborates on search criteria efficiently. Every word earns its place.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the complexity (7 parameters, no annotations, no output schema), the description is incomplete. It doesn't explain return values, error conditions, or behavioral constraints. For a search tool with multiple inputs, more context is needed to guide effective use.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 43% (3 of 7 parameters have descriptions). The description adds minimal value beyond the schema: it implies parameters for name, specialty, and location, but doesn't clarify semantics like format for 'taxonomy' or interactions between parameters. It partially compensates for low coverage but leaves gaps.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's purpose: 'Search the NPI provider directory' with specific search criteria (name, specialty, location). It uses a clear verb ('Search') and identifies the resource ('NPI provider directory'). However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'provider_enrich', which might have overlapping functionality.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention sibling tools like 'provider_enrich' or explain use cases, prerequisites, or exclusions. The agent must infer usage from the purpose alone.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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