NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service provides the development, maintenance and support of NHS Information Standards contained in the NHS Data Model and Dictionary.
About this service
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service aims to provide a central authoritative source for approved Information Standards and Data Collections (including extractions) contained within the NHS Data Model and Dictionary, by providing unambiguous definitions and associated guidance.
It is committed to delivering high quality products and services to all users and customers by operating to a set of established editorial principles, best practice standards and work instructions.
Benefits
- Promotes the provision of a consistent and unambiguous approach to the development and support of Information Standards and Data Collections (including Extractions).
- Ensures interoperability and alignment to existing and developing information standards contained within the NHS Data Model and Dictionary, in accordance with the Data Design Authority data architecture principles.
Who this service is for
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary is for everyone who is actively involved in the collection of data and the management of information in the NHS, for example:
- NHS organisations, for example Acute Trusts, Commissioning Organisations etc
- System suppliers
- Independent sector providers of NHS funded care
- Department of Health and Social Care
- UK Health Security Agency
- Royal Colleges
- Academic organisations/universities
- Information Standard developers
- NHS England internal teams
- Research organisations
National usage policy
The use of the NHS Data Model and Dictionary is recommended. It is the definitive reference point for assured information standards which support health care activities in the NHS in England.
Examples of use
For examples of how to use the NHS Data Model and Dictionary, see Demonstrations.
Status
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary is live.
The first editions of the NHS Data Manual and NHS Data Model and Dictionary were published in the 1980s as loose-leaf files. This was moved online in 2005.
Roadmap
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service does not have a development roadmap. It operates alongside the standards assurance activity presented to the Data Assurance Board (DAB).
How to access this service
For more information on how to access this service, see help and guidance.
Governance and policies
The content of the NHS Data Model and Dictionary is assured by the Data Assurance Board (DAB), which governs and publishes information standards.
Information relating to policies for our service users can be found here:
Contact us
The following table shows how to contact us about the NHS Data Model and Dictionary.
Enquiry | Point of contact |
---|---|
General enquiries about the service |
NHS Data Model and Dictionary service desk Email: [email protected] |
Join the mailing list | NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service mailing list |
Strategic direction of the service |
Nicholas Richman (senior responsible officer) Email: [email protected] |
Further information
View all changes that do not affect information standards.
Use the TRUD website to download XML Schemas.
Last edited: 27 January 2025 10:23 am