Health Care Organizations
Querying
Querying through an External Application
As an alternative to querying via the website, the Data Bank offers querying through an
How to Get Started
First, verify that you are an eligible and registered organization. Then, download the following:
- The Java 2 Runtime Environment (JRE) available free from the Sun Microsystems' Java website
- The QRXS Client Program (ZIP - 386 KB)
- The QRXS Client Program User Guide (PDF - 389 KB)
- The QRXS Response File Test Mappings (PDF - 146 KB)
- The QRXS File Format Specifications (Sign In Required)
Note: You need your Vendor ID to submit files to the QRXS and to access the file format specifications.
What Happens Next
After downloading the required tools, construct your XML file according to the QRXS File Format Specifications. Validate your file using a commercial or open source XML validator, and test it using the QRXS Test Environment. Then, submit your file through the QRXS Java client software.
Queries submitted through the QRXS are checked instantly to ensure that they meet data requirements. If the data is not formatted correctly, a file documenting the errors is sent immediately and you are not charged for the query rejection.
Under most circumstances, you will receive a response file for downloading within 2 to 4 hours of successful query submission. If you do not receive a response within 2 business days, contact the Customer Service Center.
Other Links You'll Need
Other useful links include:
- The QRXS Test Environment (provides a way to validate your files, making sure they meet the mandatory data requirements)
- The QRXS Mailing List (allows you to join the mailing list to receive notice of updates in code lists and file formats)
- Sample Response Files (provides sample files to help you format your response data)
What Happened to the ITP?
The ITP (Interface Control Document (ICD) Transfer Program) is being phased out and replaced with QRXS. ITP software vendors and users should plan to migrate to the QRXS. You may continue to access the following links:
ITP File Format Specifications (requires Vendor ID)
ITP Installation Instructions (PDF - 207 KB)
ITP Client Program (ZIP - 363 KB)
