Crash course?

[dalec]

Hi, I'm new to this, I've written several medical claim processing applications, and this year by 10/2002, HIPPA has required that claim processors be able to send and receive EDI x12 format, I've been looking at an add on for my application from EDldEv which is an addon that can read and write the raw x12 data. I'm stuck on a couple of issues, some of my clients don't have 24/7 access to the internet. My delima is, the topology, if I were to allow providers to FTP the file to my server, then my clients could FTP and pick up there information, would that work, or is there more to this that I'm missing? I've even thought of VPN for the providers.

I've searched high and dry to find out how this all will fit together, and it appears to be a secret?

If I can read and write the x12 formats that I need, and could send and receive them via FTP would that be OK, or could anybody suggest what is standard.

Thanks anyone and everyone in advance, I'm really in the dark and any input would help me. Thanks-Dale

 

[EDISMW52]

Before you even think about doing this on your own read both the Privacy and proposed Security regs. I believe you will determine that the best solution is to purchase a COTS product which has been proven to support HIPAA. Remember HIPAA violations can result in fines up to $25k!!

 

[dalec]

I won't chance the privacy issues without having that worked out. I develop COTS products in the $$$$$'s of dollars, I have several sold in the next release to incorporate the new HIPPA standards. I just wanted some input (or insite), I've just received some books on the subject, but, havent went through them yet. Even if I needed to set something up onsite that wouldnt be an issue.

I'm just trying to find out more information, your response is appreciated. Plus, if you know of program to handle that type of processing that could be an enhancment I'd like to hear it. I've been reviewing the third party add ons to vb.

Thanks,
Dale

 

[EDISMW52]

Transport/communications methods are not part of the official HIPAA regulations. Any communications protocol which supports use of store and forward or real-time in the case of the 270/271 will work. VPN, FTP, Async, Bisync, all will work. There aren't a lot of message management software packages available. Those that I know about are in the $30k+. An open source BBS package could be modified if one exists.