Members   Providers   Employers   Forms   Prescription Drugs   What to do When

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Get Enrolled

• How do I get started?
• How do I decide what is the best option for my office?
• How do I send a file?
• What is a trading partner?
• How does one become a trading partner?

How do I get started?

• There are various ways an electronic claim may be created.  All must be in the HIPAA-compliant format.
• Many offices have practice management software (a software program which can print statements, claims forms, and perhaps schedule appointments) with the ability to build the HIPAA-compliant file.
• Guidelines for choosing a vendor
• Production vendor directory

Free billing software is available.  This software will convert data into the HIPAA-compliant format.  Contact us at 1-800-472-6481, opt. 3 for more information, or if you are interested in using.

If a billing or practice management software does not have the ability to create the HIPAA-compliant format, a file in print image or other proprietary formats may be sent to a clearinghouse.  The clearinghouse will convert the file into the HIPAA-compliant format.

How do I decide what is the best option for my office?

• Some things to consider are:
• Size of practice and future growth of practice
• Workload
• Cost

Most importantly, visit with offices similar to yours in size and specialty for their opinions based on their experience.
***We are here to help you find the best EDI solution for your office.  Our knowledgeable EDI Marketing staff will gladly discuss options with you.  Contact us at:  1-800-472-6481, opt. 3, for Marketing.

How do I send a file?
There a several communication options available for the file transfer:

• The preferred method for file transfer is via the ASK Web site
• Dial-up FTP
• Network Service vendors such as VisionShare or IVANS
• VisionShare – sales@visionshareinc.com, or call 612-460-4327
• IVANS – www.ivans.com/bcbskansas, or call 800-548-2675

For more information on communication options, please refer to the Telecommunications Manual.
What is a trading partner?

• An entity who has agreed to exchange electronic data is called a trading partner.  This entity could be a clearinghouse, a billing service, or an individual provider.

How does one become a trading partner?

Anyone wishing to become a trading partner must complete the EDI Enrollment form.  This provides the information needed to complete setup for electronic transactions.  Once setup is completed the provider and/or vendor is notified and a seven-digit trading partner numbers is assigned and used as the login.  At this point, the trading partner is ready to begin submitting electronically, or testing with the vendor.

- Back -