What is it?
The HL7 EHR System Functional Model provides a reference list of functions that may be present in an Electronic Health Record System (EHR-S). The function list is described from a user perspective with the intent to enable consistent expression of system functionality. This EHR-S Model, through the creation of Functional Profiles, enables a standardized description and common understanding of functions sought or available in a given setting (e.g. intensive care, cardiology, office practice in one country or primary care in another country).


What “isn’t” it?
Great question. The DSTU is not a list of specifications for messaging, implementation, or conformance. Nor is it a specification for an actual EHR-S. It is a tool, not a requirement. Therefore, the DSTU can be used by industry, healthcare providers, governments, and other organizations as a common language (tool) for discussing EHR-S functions.

Who created it?
This DSTU is the result of a broad public-private partnership and reflects input from hundreds of individuals around the world led by the international standards organization, HL7 through its EHR-SIG.

Aren’t there too many functions?
No. The functions are a superset of all functions that can be provided by EHR-S’ (both now and in the future). Your system should be a subset. Using this approach, your system can expand, adapt, specialize, et cetera, according to your desire. Determining exactly how many (and which) functions to include the model has been one of the greatest challenges of this effort. Why? Because your functions are important – critical – for those under your care.

How can one EHR-S be compared with another?
A subset of functions (a “profile”) can describe a particular care setting or a particular use of the functions. Over time, vendors, and providers will create profiles within (country-specific) realms.

Are there some “Profile” illustrations?
To start the ball rolling, some sample profiles (not intended for actual use or benchmarking efforts) * are offered (for illustration purposes – and as a suggested approach). Each illustration has a short definition, a short scenario illustrating a specific care setting, and a subset of functions that comprise the sample profile (prioritized as essential now, essential future, optional, or not applicable).


Conclusion
This DSTU has received an unprecedented amount of feedback from hundreds of reviewers from the standards community, the provider community, the international community, and others. Continued involvement during the DSTU period, which will help establish a milestone for electronic health records systems, is eagerly awaited by the entire HL7 team. Thanks for your help!

Downloadable Files

EHR e-Prescribing Comment Package (600k)