This webpage is an introduction to the Electronic Data Transfer (EDT) Service and includes application forms, manual and instructions on how to register for EDT.
The Electronic Data Transfer (EDT) service is a vehicle for the electronic transmission of files to and from an authorized EDT user's mailbox to the ministry's mainframe computer via the Government of Ontario Network (GONet). EDT is a secure method of sending and receiving information; only authorized users with a registered EDT User ID and password can access the ministry's EDT service. The EDT service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the exception of weekly scheduled system maintenance Sunday mornings between the hours of 1:00 am and 5:00 am.
Link to Professional OHIP Forms and Applications
Electronic Data Transfer Reference Manual
Electronic Data Transfer Reference Manual is available for download below.
Electronic Data Transfer Reference Manual
48 pages | 696 Kb | PDF
File Compression for Remittance Advice Claim Reports
File compression is now available via the Electronic Data Transfer (EDT) service for the Remittance Advice (RA) claim report. The compressed format can reduce RA size by up to 80%.
EDT users who receive large RA reports (over 1 megabyte) will benefit from file compression. The RA can take less time to download, require less time on the line and potentially reduce your long distance or Datapac cost.
File Compression for Remittance Advice Claim Reports
- File compression is not mandatory.
- EDT will not accept inbound compressed files.
- File compression is available to registered EDT users only.
Technical Requirements:
The ministry cannot recommend a file compression software.
- The software chosen must have the ability to "unzip" or "extract" a data file.
- Scripted users will need to review the script and adjust it to recognize, download, unzip and read the compressed report.
- The extension of the compressed file received in the EDT mailbox will be .zip.
- Communication software settings are unaffected and do not need to be changed.
How to Register:
- Contact the EDT Help Desk at 1 800 262-6524.
- You will be asked to fax or mail a written request on letterhead. You must specify your User ID and when you want to receive the compressed RA.
Testing:
- Users are advised to test their own file compression software.
- Users will not be able to receive compressed files in the EDT Test Environment unless they send a compressed file to their own EDT User ID employing the User to User feature.
EDT File Size Limit:
- The ministry requests that you do not send files larger than 200,000 records or 12 mg via EDT. This follows the same criteria as is currently in place for data submitted on tape or cartridge.
- This incoming file size restriction will not impact the majority of EDT users. Large volume submitters please take note of this policy.
- The ministry recommends daily submission of claims for all users to ensure manageable file size and ease in reconciliation.
If you are still using Datapac, contact the EDT Help Desk at 1 800 262-6524 for information about switching to long distance direct dial. You can increase your inbound/outbound file speed and potentially save money on your long distance calls.
Acceptable Claim Submission Media Types
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is discontinuing older media types for claim submissions and will be phasing out the following media types on the effective dates as listed below:
| Media Type | Submission End Date |
|---|---|
| 9 Track Tape | March 31, 2005 |
| 3480 Cartridge | March 31, 2006 |
| 3.5 inch low (double) density diskettes | August 31, 2006 |
Health care providers are encouraged to register for EDT as an alternative to these media types.
If you have require further information or technical assistance, please contact the EDT Help Desk at: 1 800 262-6524 or in Kingston call 548-7981.
2013/2014 Cut-Off Dates for EDT
Claim submission files received by 5:00 p.m. on the following dates are the only submissions that the ministry can assure for payment on the tenth working date of the next month:
| January 18, 2013 | June 18, 2013 | November 18, 2013 |
| February 19, 2013 | July 18, 2013 | December 13, 2013* |
| March 18, 2013 | August 19, 2013 | January 20, 2014 |
| April 18, 2013 | September 18, 2013 | February 18, 2014 |
| May 21, 2013 | October 18, 2013 | March 18, 2014 |
* It is recommended that claim submissions be submitted by December 13, 2013 due to the holidays.
Electronic Data Transfer (EDT) claim submission files received after the cut-off dates may be processed until the ministry's month-end cut-off date, where time and volume permits.
Claims received by the 18th of the month will typically be processed for payment by the 15th of the following month. When the 18th falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline will be extended to the next business day. However, if time and volumes permit, EDT claims received after the 18th will be processed for payment. Claims received after the 18th of the month may not be processed until the next billing cycle.
The ministry recommends that claim files be submitted weekly.
All possible measures are exerted to ensure accuracy of this information; however, it may contain typographical errors. The public is cautioned against complete reliance upon the contents hereof without confirming the accuracy and currency of the information contained herein. The crown in Right of Ontario, as represented by the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, assumes no responsibility for any person's use of the material herein or any costs or damages associated with such use.
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