JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Background:

Semantic interoperability facilitates the exchange of and access to health data that are being documented in Electronic Health Records (EHRs) with various semantic features. The main goals of semantic interoperability development entail patient data availability and use in diverse EHRs without loss of meaning. Internationally, there are actual initiatives that aim to enhance semantic development of EHR data, and consequently, availability of patient data. Interoperability between health information systems is among the core goals of the European Health Data Space proposal and WHO global strategy for digital health.

Objective:

Objective:

To achieve an integrated health data ecosystems, stakeholders need to overcome the challenges of implementing common standards and other semantic interoperability elements. To research the available scientific evidence on the development of semantic interoperability, we defined following research questions: What are the key elements of and approaches for building semantic interoperability integrated in EHRs? What kinds of goals are driving the development? What kinds of clinical benefits are perceived following this development?

Methods:

Methods:

Our research questions focused specifically on key aspects and approaches for semantic interoperability and on possible benefits of these choices. For that purpose, we performed a systematic literature review in PubMed in January 2023 by defining our study framework based on previous research.

Results:

Results:

Our analysis consisted of 14 studies where data models, ontologies, terminologies, classifications, and standards were applied for building interoperability. Through increased access to interoperable patient information, better quality and outcomes of care can be achieved. Better communication based on easily accessible data is facilitated between health professionals and between clinicians and patients. Regarding semantic development goals, the results were closely coupled with the need to build towards usable and computable data out of heterogeneous medical information that is accessible through various EHRs and databases, e.g., registers.

Conclusions:

Conclusions:

When heading towards semantic harmonization of clinical data, more experiences and analyses are needed to assess how applicable the chosen solutions are for semantic interoperability of health care data. Implementation of semantic interoperability tends to require a lot of time and resources. The objectives are to be achieved in diffuse and disconnected clinical care environments. Therefore, approaches for enhancing clinical data availability should be well prepared, thought out, and justified to meet economically sustainable and long-term outcomes. Clinical Trial: N.A.