HiMSS redefines interoperability

PARCA eNews – April 28, 2019 – One of the major changes that came out of the HiMSS19 annual meeting last February was an effort to redefine what interoperability really means.

The organization produced a proposed definition and invited comment from industry professionals.
The comment period closed March 23, and what is emerging is a framework for all stakeholders to use to work toward remaking the US healthcare system to allow a seamless flow of patient medical information regardless of where the patient accesses treatment.

The draft proposal definition described four types of exchanges organizations may engage in:

• Foundational
• Structural
• Semantic, and
• Organizational.

The foundational exchange established the inter-connectivity requirement for one system or application to share date with another.

Structural exchange refers to the format of data exchange, the message format standards. It defines the syntax of the data exchange to ensure accurate interpretation between technology systems

Semantic interoperability is the ability of two or more systems to exchange and interpret and use the information. It requires a standard, publicly available vocabulary.

Organizational interoperability refers to the technical components as well as the policy, social and organizational components governing data exchange. This component ensures seamless, secure and timely communication within and between organizations and individuals.

Access the current version of the HiMSS definition at the "What is interoperability?" section of the HiMSS website.