DD ISO/TS 17117:2002

Overview

DD ISO/TS 17117:2002 is a technical specification that addresses the need for controlled health terminology within health informatics. This standard provides a structured framework for the development, management, and application of health terminology, ensuring consistency and clarity in health-related data exchange. It is essential for organisations involved in health informatics to adopt this standard to facilitate effective communication and interoperability.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines several key requirements that organisations must adhere to when implementing controlled health terminology:

• Terminology Structure: Establishes a clear hierarchy and relationships among terms to enhance understanding and usability.
• High-Level Indicators: Defines metrics for assessing the effectiveness of terminology usage and its impact on health informatics.
• Documentation Standards: Provides guidelines for documenting terminology to ensure transparency and reproducibility.
• Interoperability: Promotes compatibility between different health information systems through standardised terminology.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting DD ISO/TS 17117:2002 offers numerous benefits for organisations in the health sector:

• Enhanced Communication: A common terminology reduces misunderstandings and improves the quality of data shared among healthcare providers.
• Improved Data Quality: Standardised terms lead to more accurate data collection and reporting, which is crucial for clinical decision-making.
• Facilitated Research: Consistent terminology supports better data aggregation and analysis, enabling more effective health research.
• Regulatory Compliance: Aligning with this standard helps organisations meet legal and regulatory requirements related to health data management.

Compliance Value

Compliance with DD ISO/TS 17117:2002 is vital for organisations aiming to enhance their health informatics capabilities. By adhering to this standard, organisations can ensure that their terminology is not only controlled but also relevant and applicable across various health contexts. This compliance fosters trust among stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies.

Furthermore, implementing this standard can lead to improved health outcomes by enabling better data sharing and collaboration among healthcare entities. As health informatics continues to evolve, the importance of controlled terminology will only increase, making this standard a critical component of any organisation's strategy.