Querying and Reporting XML Service (QRXS)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
See also:
- Who should use the Querying and Reporting XML Service
(QRXS)?
The QRXS interface is ideal for large volume queriers and reporters who use their own transaction processing systems and want to interface those systems with the Data Banks. The QRXS is similar to the Interface Control Document (ICD) Transfer Program (ITP) interface, but uses eXtensible Markup Language (XML) as the file format for submissions and responses. XML provides the advantage of verifying the reporting format without having to submit transactions and wait for validation responses from the NPDB-HIPDB system. Also, the XML technology enables a more flexible interface that is more easily changed than the ITP if report or querying formats change.
Queries submitted through the QRXS are validated instantly with a query confirmation. The confirmation contains the batch Data Bank Document Control Number (DCN), the subject information for each subject submitted, and a status for each subject. If a query does not pass validation, a list of errors is provided for the submitter to correct. Unlike the Interface Control Document (ICD) Transfer Program (ITP), the QRXS will not charge submitters for queries that are rejected due to data problems.
- Where can I locate the Querying and Reporting XML
Service (QRXS) file format specifications?
The QRXS file format specifications, in addition to detailed information on the QRXS, can be found by selecting the Using the QRXS link on the Data Banks home page.
- How often will there be changes to the eXtensible
Markup Language (XML) format, and will we be informed in advance of
such changes?
The XML Import Format is updated periodically by the Data Banks. The Data Banks will notify users at least one month in advance of an update to the code lists, which are expected to occur quarterly. Users will be notified six months in advance of other periodic updates to the XML Import Format. It is strongly recommended that users join the Integrated Querying and Reporting Service (IQRS) Subject Database XML Import Mailing List located on the Data Banks home page, under the IQRS Subject Database category to receive notice of updates. Addresses must be kept current or notices will not be received.
- How can we test our eXtensible Markup Language (XML) subject database import files before live submission?
It is recommended that you use an XML validator to verify that your XML files conform to the XML Import Format Schema provided by the Data Banks. You may also e-mail your test import files to our Customer Service Center, at help@npdb-hipdb.hrsa.gov. Your test files will be checked for validity and will be e-mailed back to you with any corrections.
- Can an imported subject be marked as incomplete even after validation by an eXtensible Markup Language (XML) validator prior to import?
Yes. An XML validator checks that your XML files are correctly formatted prior to importing them into the Integrated Querying and Reporting Service (IQRS). A validator will not reveal which subjects are incomplete, since this is a function of the subject data rather than the file format.
- Is there a particular validator that you would
recommend?
There are many commercial and open-source eXtensible Markup Language (XML) validators available; however the Data Banks neither recommends nor supports any particular brand(s).
- Can I query and report using my Entity Data Bank Administrator account?
No, the Entity Data Bank Administrator user ID can only be used to perform administrative functions. The Entity Data Bank Administrator must create individual user accounts for each authorized user to submit queries and reports. The Entity Data Bank Administrator must also create an individual user account for his or her own use if he or she routinely queries or reports to the Data Banks. (Also in Interface Control Document Transfer Program [ITP] FAQ and Integrated Querying and Reporting Service [IQRS] FAQ.)
- What security measures are in place to
protect data transmissions to and from the Data Banks?
All data transmissions are protected using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocol. SSL interface between applications (such as browsers) and the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocols to provide server authentication, client authentication, and an encrypted communication channel between client and server. Software is installed to protect against viruses, malware, and spyware. A firewall is used to filter all traffic and to keep malicious traffic outside the protected environment. An intrusion detection system monitors activity to identify malicious or suspicious events. (Also in Security FAQ and Interface Control Document Transfer Program [ITP] FAQ.)
- How can we find out if our
Querying and Reporting XML Service (QRXS)
report submission file(s) were received, and
how long should we wait for a response file?
To confirm that your submission file(s) were received, the Data Banks immediately generate a status code indicating whether the file(s) were successfully received.
The response file(s) should be available for download within two to four hours. Under certain circumstances, additional processing may be required. Please do not re-submit your report on the subject in question, since this will result in duplicate transactions. If you do not receive your response within two business days of submission, please call the Customer Service Center at 1-800-767-6732. Information Specialists are available to speak with you weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (5:30 p.m. on Fridays) Eastern Time. The Customer Service Center is closed on all Federal holidays.
- How long is a
Querying and Reporting XML Service (QRXS)
report response file available for download?
Report responses are available for download for up to 45 days from the date of submission. Password responses are available for download for five days.
- Can I correct a Revision-to-Action Report?
Yes. The reporting entity may correct a Revision-to-Action Report. Log in to the IQRS, located on the Data Banks home page, and select Report on the Options screen. Enter the Data Bank Control Number (DCN) of the report to correct and select Correct or Modify a Report on the Report Type screen. Make the corrections to the report and submit the changes. A Revision-to-Action Report may also be corrected using the Querying and Reporting XML Service (QRXS). Refer to the appropriate QRXS File Format Specifications for additional information. (Also in Integrated Querying and Reporting Service [IQRS] FAQ and Reporting FAQ.)
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Last revised September 2008 |