The TCP/IP Protocol suite is a set of communication protocols that is used to connect computers and other devices on the Internet. One of these protocols is the File Transfer Protocol , commonly referred to as FTP .

FTP is a fast and reliable method for transferring files between two remote computers, using the Internet.

A basic FTP connection consists of a remote computer (the client) calling an FTP server. FTP connections transmit information in two ways: the client may upload content from the server or download content to the server.

FTP is an Internet standard, and most computers already have some type of FTP client installed. The most common type of FTP client used today is the multi-purpose web browser, such as Microsoft's Internet Explorer. A strength of FTP is that for a basic connection, it doesn't really matter what “client” is used.

In order to make a connection , simply direct the “client” to connect to a specific FTP server. For example, to connect to the HealthLink FTP server using Microsoft's Internet Explorer, type the following into the address bar: ftp://ftp.healthlink.com/

In order to transfer a file (upload or download) through FTP:

• Log in to a remote computer that has been configured as an FTP server.
• Enter a username and password to gain access to the remote system.
• Select the particular directory on the remote system, which contains the file you wish to download or upload.
• Transfer the file to or from the system in question.

To access the HealthLink FTP server, contact your Payor Relations Specialist. A request form will be completed and will be forwarded to HealthLink's Information Technology department, who will work with the payor's designated contact on the FTP implementation and testing processes.

Once FTP transmission testing has been deemed successful, the new process may be placed into “production”.

FTP may be used to send eligibility to HealthLink, receive par files from HealthLink and/or receive claims electronically.

If interested in FTP transmission, please contact your Payor Relations Specialist at 877-284-0101, extension 6132 or email PayorRelations@HealthLink.com .

Q: What is FTP and how does it work?
A: FTP is a method of transferring files between two remote computers. Files are transmitted from one location to another using the Internet.

Q: What types of files can be transmitted via FTP?
A: Payors can receive participating provider files and electronic claims via FTP and send member eligibility files via FTP.

Q: Is FTP a secure method to send and receive confidential data?
A: Yes, transactions are encrypted to ensure protection of confidential data using PGP encryption. Par files, however, do not contain PHI, and do not need encryption.

Q: What is needed to take advantage of the FTP capabilities?
A: In order to use FTP, an FTP client is needed (i.e. Microsoft Internet Explorer), as well as a user name, a password, the directory to which data will be sent or received, and HealthLink's FTP server address.

Q: Who should be contacted if your firm is ready to begin sending/receiving files via FTP now?
A : To begin FTP transmissions or submissions, please contact your Payor Relations representative at 877-284-0101, extension 6132. Payor Relations will initiate the Information Technology (IT) request for payor clients.