This chapter simplifies the steps you need to take to get your OHIP billing number and start submitting claims successfully.
2.1 Obtain Your Independent Practice Certificate
If you’re a new physician (or new to practice in Ontario), you need your Independent Practice Certificate before you can apply for your OHIP billing number.
You will apply for your Certificate with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
Don’t Forget:
The approval process for your Independent Practice Certificate can take anywhere from 3-7 weeks.
2.2 Register for an OHIP Billing Number
Once you have your Independent Practice Certificate (CPSO number), you can register for an OHIP billing number. This is a unique 6-digit number that tells the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) who claims are coming from.
Our Ultimate OHIP Billing eBook will walk you through how to apply for your OHIP billing number and what documentation you will be required to submit.
2.3 Sign Up For GO Secure And MC EDT
GO Secure is the secure website that allows claim transfers between you and the Ministry. MC EDT (Medical Claims Electronic Data Transfer) is the secure method of actually transferring those claims.
Even with a billing number, you can’t bill in Ontario without setting up these two accounts.
Our Ultimate Billing eBook will provide you with all the links you need to accomplish this step along with additional Ministry resources designed to make the signup process a little easier.
2.4 Designate a Billing Service
Once you have chosen your billing service, such as Dr.Bill, you need to authorize this partner to upload and download claim files for you.
This step has two parts: Adding a designee and granting permission for the designee to submit claims on your behalf. Our eBook will walk you through this step using Dr.Bill as an example.
Helpful Tip: If you are billing to a group, don’t forget to mention it to your billing service to ensure they set up your account properly from the start.
The Ultimate OHIP Billing eBook
2.5 Complete Additional Billing Necessities
Ensuring all other registrations and responsibilities are fulfilled in a timely manner is critical to uninterrupted billing. The full version of our eBook covers these remaining 6 essentials:
- Changing your medical practice address
- Registering with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)
- Registering for the Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN)
- Updating your Ontario Medical Association (OMA) membership
- Securing Hospital Privileges
- Updating your Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) Coverage
