Question

1. Evaluate the interoperability of disparate information systems.
2. Differentiate between semantic and syntactic interoperability as they relate to healthcare.
3. Differentiate among standards, classifications, and terminologies.

Answer 1

Ans) Interoperability is the technology anecdote for the lack of communication among disparate systems. This field encompasses multiple tiers of communication that healthcare managers need to understand.

- The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) has developed a definition of interoperability, which the organization describes as “the ability of different information technology systems and software applications to communicate, exchange data, and use the information that has been exchanged.”

- HIMSS asserts that data exchange schema and standards should allow for the sharing of data among healthcare community participants irrespective of which applications or vendors they use. Interoperability, according to HIMSS, enables HIT systems to transcend organizational boundaries and promote effective healthcare delivery.

• Syntactic interoperability:

- Intermediate level that defines the structure or format of data exchange where there is uniform movement of data from one system to another such that the clinical or operational purpose and meaning of the data is preserved and unaltered.

- Defines the syntax of the data exchange (i.e. an integer from system A should be interpreted as an integer in system B)

- Semantic interoperability:

Takes advantage if both the structuring of the data exchange and the codification of the data including vocabulary so that the receiving information technology can interpret the data

supports electronic exchange of patient summary information among healthcare providers and other authorized parties via potentially disparate EHR systems

- Standard: something used as a measure, norm, or model in comparative evaluations.

Classifications: classification system where entries are arranged based on some hierarchical structure. file system, filing system. a system of classifying into files (usually arranged alphabetically) grouping, pigeonholing. a system for classifying things into groups.

Terminology: the body of terms used with a particular technical application in a subject of study, profession, etc.