Update to data specifications for ASCII & XML files from 1 November 2013 – incorporating Extended Medicare Safety Net (EMSN) fields

Page last updated: 29 August 2013

From 1 November 2013, the data specifications for the ASCII and XML files will be extended to include additional fields for EMSN percentage capping.


Three new fields will be introduced to the ASCII and XML files:

“EMSNPercentageCap” will specify the amount of the percentage cap if applicable.
“EMSNMaximumCap” will specify the maximum cap if applicable.
“EMSNDescription” will contain the EMSN cap description for derived fees.


Two existing fields will be amended in the ASCII and XML files:

“EMSNCap” will specify the type of cap, as well as indicating whether a cap exists for that item.
“EMSNCapAmount” will be renamed to “EMSNFixedCapAmount” and will specify the amount of the fixed cap, if applicable.


For further information on EMSN cap changes, please refer to the fact sheets available on the MBS online website.
Please download the XML Field Specifications for details about the changes to the XML file.
Please visit the ASCII Field Specifications web page for details about the changes to the ASCII file.