In October 2004 Data Set Change Notice (DSCN 24/2004) was published providing information detailing the requirement for Commissioning Data Set  messages to be submitted in XML format for use by the Secondary Uses Service (SUS). XML will therefore replace the existing EDIFACT messages currently used by the NHS-Wide Clearing Service (NWCS).

XML is a markup language for data flows containing structured information and will meet Government standards in line with the e-Government Interoperability Framework (e-gif) requirements.

The schemas are published as .xsd files in zipped format. These are best viewed using XMLSPY or an equivalent XML viewer. Schema documentation as generated by XMLSPY is also available for download, this documentation may be viewed in most browsers. A Schema Version Release Note file (in MS Word) is also included in the documentation.

The following table sets out the authorised versions of the Commissioning Data Set Message.
To download a schema and its associated documentation, follow the hyperlink for the specific Message Version.

CDS Version

Message Format

Message Version

Available From

Mandated From

Usable To

NHS005

XML Schema

V-5-0

01/04/2006

01/10/2006

Ongoing

This Version introduces support in the CDS for the Critical Care MDS and will enable Trusts to submit the CCMDS data to the Secondary Uses Service from October 2006.

NHS004

XML Schema

V-4-2-a

01/10/2005

Only for NWCS-SUS migration

Only for NWCS-SUS migration

Version 4-2-a was the schema released to support the initial development of the CDS-XML processes for submitting data to the SUS. Following the authorisation of Version 5-0, this version must only be used for NWCS-SUS migration.

NHS003

UN/EDIFACT

CDS MIG V4

01/04/2001

01/09/2001

31 March 2007

This is the final CDS EDIFACT Message version to be issued, all subsequent CDS Message versions will use XML formats.

CDS EDIFACT Message specifications are documented in the NHS CDS Manual available from the NHS Data Standards website.