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Introduction of System URLs in Compliance with GUPRI

Published:

Changes

Background

The data consumers of the FHIR service from DMP (SAFEST project) are experiencing challenges related to references for code systems, identifiers, and extensions. These challenges include:

  • The need to understand what a data element represents. This is addressed using the system attribute, which specifies this for extensions, CodeableConcept, and identifiers. The system attribute must contain a URL.
  • Several existing system URLs are vulnerable to changes or point to resources that are not accessible.

To address these challenges, system URLs are being introduced in compliance with GUPRI (Globally Unique, Persistent and Resolvable Identifier).

What is a System URL?

A system URL is a unique and persistent identifier that uniquely identifies a code system, an identifier, or an extension. It serves as a stable reference in data exchange to specify which terminology or classification a code belongs to and is used in FHIR resources as a system attribute in CodeableConcept, extension, and identifier.

Requirements for System URLs:

  • System URLs must remain stable throughout their lifecycle and always point to a webpage that provides sufficient information for the recipient.
  • System URLs must be readable and understandable by both systems and humans.
  • Data consumers must be able to use "System" and "Code" to look up code systems and codes used in the CodeSystem resource.
  • Code system references in the published JSON structure must clearly convey the type of data they represent.

To ensure the stability of URLs, a service will be set up to redirect from the new stable URLs to the actual URLs.

Implementation and Transition Period

The exact timing for the introduction of new system URLs has not yet been determined. As implementation approaches, DMP will issue an operational notice in advance. It is therefore important that all consumers keep their contact information updated with DMP to ensure they receive this notification on time.

There will be a transition period with two versions, but details regarding this have not been finalized.