Join Today! Decide see page 3. Access see pages 3 and 4. Network see page 5. Save see page 5. Implement see page 6. It s the Right

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1 SEVEN Reasons to Join HL7 International Today Decide see page 3 Access see pages 3 and 4 Network see page 5 Save see page 5 Implement see page 6 Be Recognized see page 6 It s the Right Thing To Do see page 6 Join Today! Unlocking the Power of Health Information

2 What is HL7 International? Founded in 1987, Health Level Seven (HL7) International is the global authority for healthcare information interoperability and standards. A not-for-profit standards developing organization (SDO) that creates the most widely used standards for health information distribution and management, HL7 s influence extends around the globe with members in more than 55 countries around the world. HL7 develops, distributes and supports standards for interoperability with the goal of improving health care delivery, optimizing workflow, reducing ambiguity and enhancing efficiency among all healthcare stakeholders providers, payers, government agencies, research organizations, patients and any other individual or organization that needs access to individual or aggregated health information. HL7 International is an association of more than 2300 members representing more than 500 organizations such as hospitals, payers and managed care organizations, group practices, local, state, national and international governments and agencies, public health organizations, pharmaceutical research and development organizations, clinical laboratories, and most of the HIT vendors and HIT consultants serving the healthcare community. Growing International Influence HL7 International is a global organization that is rapidly expanding its reach across the world. The growing number of affiliate countries is now more than 30, with affiliates established in six of the globe s seven continents. The affiliate in each country is a not-for-profit entity organized along principles that mirror those of HL7 International. The HL7 messaging standards are used across the globe. There are also large scale CDA implementations in North and South America, Europe and Asia Pacific. The participation of these affiliates is also helping to shape the HL7 standards to meet the requirements of a global healthcare IT community. Each affiliate contributes its requirements to the core standards through the HL7 work groups and participates in the standard voting process. In addition, HL7, along with CEN/TC 251 and ISO TC/215, is a founding member of the Joint Initiative Council, an international SDO collaborative effort whose goal is to further advance shared plans to coordinate and collaborate in delivering global standards that enable interoperable capabilities in the healthcare domain. These plans will enhance the coordination of the SDOs; strengthen the delivery of standards-based solutions to all customers; and support the goal of safe, accessible, quality, and effective health service delivery. ANSI Accreditation HL7 has been an ANSI-accredited standards developer since HL7 was a founding member of ANSI s Healthcare Informatics Standards Planning Panel (HISPP) and its successors, the ANSI Healthcare Informatics Standards Board (HISB) and the Healthcare Information Technology Standards Panel (HITSP). All HL7 standards released since 1994 have been approved by ANSI as American National Standards. Through 2009, HL7 has produced more than 60 ANSI-approved standards. Health Level Seven and HL7 are registered trademarks of Health Level Seven International, registered in the U.S. Trademark Office. 2

3 Decide Voting Rights and Committee Participation A Voice in Standards Development HL7 standards are some of the most widely implemented in healthcare. You can help create the standards that will define the future of health information interoperability. You will have a say in the direction and outcome of these extremely influential standards. As a voting member, you will have direct influence on, and input to, the HL7 standards being developed or refined. Your participation will help ensure that standards are balanced to meet both the broad needs of the industry and the specific needs of your organization. access Copies of the Standards Copies of the most recent versions of the HL7 standards including Version 2, Version 3, Arden Syntax, CCOW, Structured Product Labeling (SPL), Electronic Health Record System Functional Model (EHR-S FM) and the Clinical Document Architecture (CDA) are free with your membership. (Organizational members receive multiple copies.) These standards are essential in the implementation of almost all healthcare-related IT projects where interoperability is involved. They are a must-have for anyone participating in the development or purchase of healthcare systems. HL7 membership also grants free access to implementation guides for HL7 standards such as Version 2 and CDA. The savings from the inclusion of these standards often more than justifies the cost of membership. Participation in HL7 work groups provides another way to help shape the standards. These groups are the main authors of the standard. Joining in on the dialogue at the work group level will help ensure that your voice is heard. HL7 work groups cover areas such as child health, clinical decision support, clinical genomics, electronic health records, health care devices, patient care, patient safety, pharmacy, security, services oriented architecture, tooling and vocabulary. To see a complete listing of HL7 work groups, please visit Access to Industry Trends and New Technologies HL7 s membership includes some of the industry s top experts from around the world. Having these experts participate in the standards development process has meant that HL7 and its work products are at the forefront of industry trends and new technologies. HL7 is one of the first standards organizations to embrace XML, with both Version 3 and the Clinical Document Architecture incorporating the technology. HL7 working group meetings offer another chance to access this expertise. In addition, HL7 tutorials offered at these meetings as well as at the Educational Summits, address the most current industry topics. Electronic health records, personal health records, service oriented architecture and vocabulary are just some examples. HL7 Standards HL7 s Version 2 Messaging Standard First released in October 1987, An Application Protocol for Electronic Data Exchange in Healthcare Environments, is a messaging standard that allows the exchange of clinical data between systems. The Version 2 Messaging Standard is one of the most widely implemented standards for healthcare in the world. XML Encoding Rules For HL7 Version 2 Messages The objective of this ANSI-approved document is to present alternate encoding rules for HL7 Version and 2.4 messages (and a mechanism for determining alternate encoding rules for subsequent HL7 2.x versions) based on the Extensible Markup LanguageXML [XML] that could be used in environments where senders and receivers both understand XML. HL7 s Version 3 Normative Edition The release of HL7 s Version 3 Normative Edition marks a quantum leap in the functionality and interoperability of this standard. A suite of specifications based on HL7 s Reference Information Model (RIM), Version 3 Normative Edition provides a single source that allows implementers of Version 3 specifications to work with the full set of messages, data types, and terminologies needed to build a complete implementation. Version 3 is one of the first in the industry to embrace XML and is composed of several products, including foundation (RIM, and vocabulary domains and value sets), messages, documents, services (Java and Web) and rules (GELLO). Version 3 documents are highlighted on page 4. 3

4 Why Join HL7 International? access HL7 Standards (continued from page 3) Clinical Document Architecture (CDA) CDA provides an exchange model for clinical documents (such as discharge summaries and progress notes) and brings the healthcare industry closer to the realization of an electronic medical record. By leveraging the use of XML, the HL7 Reference Information Model (RIM) and coded vocabularies, the CDA makes documents both machine-readable so they can be parsed and processed electronically and human-readable so they can be retrieved and used by the people who need them. CDA documents can be displayed using XML-aware Web browsers or wireless applications such as cell phones and palm-held PDAs. Structured Product Labeling (SPL) SPL, an HL7 ANSI-approved standard, is a document markup standard that specifies the structure and semantics for the regulatory requirements and content of the authorized published information that accompanies any medicine licensed by a national or international medicines licensing authority. SPL markup of a product labeling document both preserves the human readability of the content and facilitates machine processing of that content. Arden Syntax for Medical Logic Systems Arden Syntax is a language for representing and sharing medical knowledge among personnel, information systems, and institutions. It is designed for organizations that require or develop systems that automatically assist physicians in decisions and alerts. The logic for making these decisions or issuing these alerts is encoded into health knowledge bases called MLMs, each of which contains sufficient knowledge to make a single decision. Contradiction alerts, management suggestions, data interpretations, treatment protocols, and diagnosis scores are examples of health knowledge bases that can be represented using the Arden Syntax. Claims Attachments HL7 has collaborated with ASC X12 since 1997 to develop standards for electronic attachments in healthcare. This joint development effort has resulted in standards for attachments to healthcare claims, and pre-certification/pre-authorization transactions. HL7 is also participating in the Prescription Drug Prior Authorization Workflow to Transactions Group which is being led by NCPDP (National Council for Prescription Drug Programs). This group has identified a requirement for a drug prior authorization attachment. In these joint initiatives the HL7 standards are used to convey clinical and other supporting information, commonly referred to as attachments. The HL7 attachments standards are based on the Clinical Document Architecture (CDA) and have been proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as the standard for claims attachments under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996). In the HHS proposal, six attachment types developed by HL7 have been put forward for adoption: Clinical Reports, Rehabilitation Services, Laboratory Results, Medications, Ambulance Services, and Emergency Department. In addition to the above documents, the Attachments Work Group added the following specifications: Children s Preventative Health Services and Patient Information Unspecified Content. Clinical Context Management Specification (CCOW) CCOW is an end-user focused standard that complements HL7 s traditional emphasis on data interchange and enterprise workflow. Using a technique known as context management, CCOW allows users to interact with multiple, independent applications from many different systems, each via its native user interface. This gives users the experience of using only a single system. The CCOW Standard serves as the basis for ensuring secure and consistent access to patient information from diverse sources. Functional Specifications 1. Electronic Health Record System Functional Model (EHR-S FM) The HL7 EHR-S FM provides a reference list of functions that may be present in an electronic health record system. The function list is described from a user perspective with the intent to enable consistent expression of system functionality. The EHR-S FM, through the creation of functional profiles, enables a standardized description and common understanding of functions sought or available in a given setting (e.g. emergency department, child health, behavioral health, long-term care). 2. Personal Health Record System Functional Model (PHR-S FM) The PHR-S FM defines the set of functions for Personal Health Record (PHR) systems and offers guidelines that facilitate health information exchange among different PHR systems and between PHR systems and EHR systems. The PHR-S FM was released as draft standard for trial use in December During the period of trial use, consumers can begin requesting standards-based functionality when they select PHR systems and software vendors can begin incorporating the model s requirements into their products. 4

5 NETWORK A Voice in the Industry HL7 International members have access to networking with leading HL7 experts as well as other industry leaders. As a member, you can exchange solutions and ideas with the global leaders in the development and implementation of health information standards. HL7 members have an opportunity to influence more than just the HL7 standards. HL7 sits on the Designated Standards Maintenance Organization (DSMO) charged with managing and maintaining the electronic data interchange transaction standards adopted as national standards under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). HL7 is also closely involved with other influential standards developing organizations and industry groups. A representative from HL7 sits on the Board of Directors of the Workgroup for Electronic Data Interchange (WEDI) and HL7 s representative serves as the vice chair for the Health Information Technology Standards Panel (HITSP). In fact, HL7 leaders sit on a number of industry boards. HL7 is also very involved with the European Committee for Standardization s Technical Committee for Health Informatics (CEN/TC 251), the preeminent healthcare information technology standards developing organization in Europe, HIMSS Electronic Health Record Association (EHRA), and Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). Partner Organizations Accredited Standards Committee X12 (ASC-X12) American Dental Association (ADA) America s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) California HealthCare Foundation (CHCF) CEN (European Commit for Standardization) TC 251 Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) Continua Health Alliance (CHA) Digital Imaging and Communication In Medicine (DICOM) GS1 Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) International Health Terminology Standards Development Organisation (IHTSDO) ISO (International Organization for Standardization) TC 215 Medbiquitous National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) North American Association for Central Cancer Registries (NACCR) The Health Story Project HL7 is also working on formal agreements with other relevant groups. SAVE Discounts on Meeting Attendance, HL7 Education Sessions, Online Job Postings and Other HL7 Products HL7 s three annual Working Group Meetings and HL7 Educational Summits are invaluable educational resources, and HL7 members enjoy considerable discounts on both meeting registration and tutorial fees. Discounts from attending just one HL7 meeting often more than cover the cost of an individual membership, and, because all of an organizational member s employees are entitled to discounted meeting rates, these discounts can often justify the cost of an organizational membership as well. HL7 members also enjoy generous discounts on other HL7 products as well. Shop our convenient online bookstore. Additional copies of the standards, Access database, and education guides are just some of the items that members can purchase at a discount. Members can also post job openings on the HL7 website at discounted rates (or in the case of organizational members, at no charge). It s a great way to find HL7-specific expertise. 5

6 IMPLEMENT Why Join HL7 International? HL7 standards are among the most widely used technology specifications in healthcare. HL7 standards help the healthcare industry increase efficiency, reduce cost and improve quality of care. HL7 offers tools, training and support for standards implementation. For more information on implementation resources, please visit A number of implementation guides have also been developed to aid organizations in the process of HL7 standards implementation. These guides are available free with your membership. HL7 also makes available several standards and implementation guides as Draft Standards for Trial Use (DSTU). To see a current listing of DSTUs, please visit Member Use of HL7 Standards Individual: Individual members not associated with an organizational member will have access to the specifications for their personal edification and are not authorized to reproduce or distribute any HL7 copyrighted material without express written permission. The use of the specifications by an individual member not associated with an organizational member in the development of software products specific to the exchange of healthcare information or the interoperability of such information is strictly prohibited and may be grounds for revocation of membership. Individual members may engage in implementation services based on their personal knowledge of the protocol specifications provided such services do not include access to or distribution of the protocol specifications. Organizational: Organizational members have the right to reproduce and distribute all HL7 copyrighted materials on an internal basis solely for use within their organization. They may also reproduce and distribute excerpts of the standards (e.g., a limited number of tables, message, and segment definitions, but not whole chapters) to any customers, and provide training related to the standards for their employees and customers. Be Recognized Opportunities to Promote Your HL7 Involvement All HL7 international members are listed on HL7 s extensive online directory, with organizational members receiving a full organizational profile. HL7 International s organizational, supporter and benefactor memberships also provide additional ways to communicate involvement in HL7. These members receive recognition in HL7 News, HL7 International s official newsletter. Organizational memberships also include the use of the HL7 International Organizational Member logo and the receipt of an HL7 International Organizational Member certificate. The logo can be used on your organization s website, marketing materials and proposals; while the certificate can be hung in your office or lobby. Both the logo and certificate are great ways to let potential clients or vendors know that your organization is HL7 knowledgeable and HL7 involved. It s the right thing to do For more than two decades, people just like you have been giving their time, expertise and financial support to develop standards for everyone in healthcare. As a non-profit organization, HL7 relies on members to direct the organization s activities, to develop the standards and to vote on draft standards before they are issued for use. HL7 relies also on the dues members pay most of its operating budget is funded by member dues. HL7 needs the financial support of every individual and organization with an interest in health information interoperability standards along with their expertise to develop or approve standards. Please join today. See the attached membership application or visit us online at 6

7 HL7 s Online Resources The HL7 International website is an invaluable resource, providing a wealth of information helpful to both the HL7 neophyte and expert alike. You can use the site to learn more about HL7, apply for membership, purchase standards, training materials and other HL7 products, register for a meeting, access our online library, connect with HL7 experts and so much more. Implementation Resources HL7 standards are among the most widely used technology specifications in healthcare. HL7 also offers online tools, resources and support for standards implementation. Visit the implementer Wiki or download various tools and implementation guides. You can also read case studies to learn how other organizations are implementing HL7 standards. Listservs Connect You to the HL7 Experts The HL7 International site hosts more than 60 active listservs. These lists are often populated by HL7 experts folks with years of active HL7 involvement, experience and expertise. This expertise can be a great resource for questions or for advice on a particular project or problem. The focus of the listservs range from HL7 basics to specific areas of interest (electronic health records, lab automation and security are some examples). Member Directory Puts You in Touch with Members The HL7 online Membership Directory lists thousands of individual and organizational HL7 members. It s a great resource when searching for a specific member or when searching for an organization to implement an HL7 project. Job Postings Help Connect Employers and Job Seekers Our online job postings are a great way for employers to connect with candidates with HL7 expertise. Organizational memberships include free monthly job postings. (The number of free postings varies according to the level of membership). These postings can also be purchased if not included in your membership. Job seekers should be sure to check the site often for new listings. Online Registration Makes Meeting Sign Up Easy Our online registration function makes signing up for one of HL7 s working group meetings or educational summits quick and easy. The online brochure gives you all the information you need, while online registration forms walk you through the process, making registration fast and uncomplicated. HL7 Bookstore Lets You Purchase From Your Desk Our online bookstore lets you order HL7 items right from the comfort of your own desk. Use it to order copies of the standards, educational materials, and HL7 reference tools. HL7 International Social Media Tools HL7 International is active in the social media community. You can follow us on Twitter or join our LinkedIn Group to stay up-to-date with what s happening in HL7. All this and more is available online at 7

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