Files Available

• Metadata files are used by the NHS to validate data. The files facilitate data consistency and quality. The files are:
  • Diagnosis (ICD-10)
  • Operation (OPCS-4) Fourth Revision Consolidated Version
  • NHS Postcode Directory
  • Frozen Postcode Directory
  • Country Pseudo Postcodes.

• Metadata files are used by the NHS to validate data. The files facilitate data consistency and quality. The files are:
  • Diagnosis (ICD-10)
  • OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures (OPCS-4)
  • NHS Postcode Directory
  • Frozen Postcode Directory
  • Country Pseudo Postcodes.

• The ICD-10 file is issued by NHS Connecting for Health, from whom a specification is available. It is intended to reissue this file in line with the ICD-10 updates.

• The Operation metadata file is also issued by NHS Connecting for Health on request. No update of this file is currently envisaged.

• The Operation metadata file and specification is issued by the NHS Classifications Service of NHS Connecting for Health to support implementation of new releases; see Contact Details.

• The full and reduced versions of the NHS Postcode Directory are issued every quarter by the Organisation Data Service. Named recipients both inside the NHS and other recipients licensed to use this data in support of the NHS are able to access it through the online distribution service, TRUD (Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service) and through the Organisation Data Service pages on NHSnet; see Contact Details.

• A full description of the NHS Postcode Directory and the Organisation Data Service reduced postcode data files, can be found by browsing the Office for National Statistics Data section of the Organisation Data Service pages on NHSnet at http://nww.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/ods/downloads/officenatstats/ (NHS Postcode Directory) and http://nww.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/ods/downloads/postcode/ (reduced files). The same descriptions can also be accessed via TRUD (Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service). 

• Any area within the NHS taking advantage of the supply of metadata by the Office for National Statistics will be expected to abide by any rules and conditions imposed by the Office for National Statistics Section supplying the metadata.

• Any area within the NHS taking advantage of the supply of metadata by the Office for National Statistics will be expected to abide by any rules and conditions imposed by the Office for National Statistics Section supplying the metadata.

  Format of Metadata Files

Media

• NHS Connecting for Health Metadata files are normally supplied on disk. Potential users should contact the NHS Information Authority Coding and Classification Help Desk on 0121 333 0420 (direct line).

  Format of Metadata Files

• The following pages give the record layouts and data content for Country Pseudo Postcode metadata files.

• The following pages give the record layouts and data content for the Operation and Country Pseudo Postcode metadata files.

  Operation File Data Content

• This file consists of about 7,000 records, one record for each operation (OPCS-4) Fourth Revision Consolidated Version used in the Hospital Episode Statistics processing system. The records are in operation code order. Each record also contains editing parameters used in validation.

  OPERATION FILE RECORD LAYOUT

  Start Position	Size	Occurs	Field Description
  1	11		selection indicators
  12	1		operation prefix
  13	4		operation code
  17	8		filler
  25	55		operation name (3 digit)
  80	5		filler
  85	60		operation name (4 digit)
  145	43		filler
  188	1		sex (absolute)
  189	3		filler
  192	1		sex (scrutiny)
  193	1		filler
  194	2		status of operation
  196	23		filler
  219	1	10	method of delivery
  229	24		filler

  OPERATION FILE FIELD CONTENTS

  Field	Content
  Operation Prefix	space
  Operation Code	4 chars, 1 alphanumeric + 3 numeric
  Sex (absolute)	space = accept any sex code 1 = males not accepted 2 = females not accepted
  	1 = males not accepted
  	2 = females not accepted
  Sex (scrutiny)	space = accept any sex code
  	1 = males not accepted
  	2 = females not accepted
  NB The following relate to primary operation only
  Status of Operation	if status not = 01, reject for scrutiny
  Method of Delivery	10 one character codes representing the DELMETH code values 0 - 9. Check character position corresponding to DELMETH code value space = no check required 1 = reject for scrutiny

    

Country Pseudo Postcode File Data Content

• This file contains about 130 records. The usual country of residence for short term overseas visitors is derived from the country pseudo postcode. The codes are  available in electronic format on the NHS Postcode Directory ("Gridlink version").

  For the Organisation Data Service contact details, see Contact Details.

• The expanded area code field contains the country of birth code in characters 1-4 (a repeat of the characters 3-6 in the pseudo postcode). The remainder of the expanded area code is blank except for codes 993C (UK nos) and 993V (no fixed abode) where characters 5-7 are 9space9.

  COUNTRY PSEUDO FILE RECORD LAYOUT

  Start Pos	Size	Data Type	Field Description
  1	11	X	selection indicators
  12	6	X	6 digit postcode (POSTSIX)
  18	1	A	7th digit
  19	6	X	filler
  25	50	X	name of country
  75	5	X	filler
  80	19	X	area details
  99	154	X	filler

1. The classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures was originally issued by the Office of Population Censuses and Surveys (OPCS). The 4th revision was first implemented in hospital information systems in 1987. This was subject to a significant number of amendments and a consolidated version was reproduced in 1990 with future updates to reflect on-going maintenance.

2. The classification of interventions and procedures (OPCS-4.2) was substantially enhanced and a new version implemented in 2006 (OPCS-4.3) with a commitment to undertake annual review and potential update. This will be continued until further notice.

3. From OPCS version 4.3 onwards, the classification comprises a list of alphanumeric codes with mainly anatomically based chapters, most of which relate to the whole or part of a system of the body. Each is designated alphabetically e.g. Chapter A covers the nervous system and Chapter K the heart. The alphabetic character for each chapter forms the leading digit of the 3 and 4 digit codes within it. Chapters are based on body systems with specific operations being listed for individual organs.

4. There are instances where an existing category needs extension. In such cases, and dependent on the chapter capacity, an extended category is added within the Tabular List chapter. These categories are referred to as principal category or extended category and identified by an accompanying note to ease navigation.

5. Chapters that have reached capacity are then extended using alphanumeric categories which are assigned using the free alpha O. This has occurred within three chapters (Chapters L, W and Z). Codes created in this way still form part of an existing chapter even though they have a different alpha prefix to the rest of that chapter. Such new codes will, therefore, logically sit at the end of the body system chapter and are readily identified within the alphabetical index. There is an additional (Chapter X) for operations on multiple systems using miscellaneous procedures.

6. The list of High Cost Drugs can be found in the Alphabetical Index. A separate detailed listing of common chemotherapy regimens used in the treatment of neoplasms is provided on the website at Chemotherapy Regimens for OPCS-4.4.

7. The classification is published in two volumes. The Tabular List and Alphabetical Index are available from The Stationary office.

Introduction

The OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures (OPCS-4) is a Fundamental Information Standard.  The classification is used by Health Care Providers and Strategic Health Authorities.

 OPCS-4 is used to support operational and strategic planning, resource utilisation, performance management, reimbursement, research and epidemiology.  It is used by NHS suppliers to build/update software to support NHS business functions and interoperability.

The OPCS-4 is subject to annual review and potential update to ensure that modern clinical practice is represented appropriately.  This will be continued until further notice as shown below:

*Tables of Coding Equivalences are issued for mapping back to previous versions found at https://www.uktcregistration.nss.cfh.nhs.uk/trud/

The NHS Data Model and Dictionary contains a number of data collections that require OPCS-4 codes, such as Central Returns and Commissioning Data Sets.  All data collections should use the latest version of the  OPCS-4 classification as specified in the table above.

Background

The classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures was originally issued by the Office of Population Censuses and Surveys (OPCS). The 4th revision was first implemented in hospital information systems in 1987. This was subject to a significant number of amendments and a consolidated version was reproduced in 1990.

The OPCS Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures (OPCS-4.2) was substantially enhanced to ensure that modern clinical practice was represented appropriately within the classification and a new version was implemented in 2006 titled OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures (OPCS-4.3) with a commitment to undertake annual review and potential update. The classification comprises a list of alphanumeric codes with mainly anatomically based chapters, most of which relate to the whole or part of a body system. Each chapter is designated alphabetically e.g. Chapter A covers the nervous system and Chapter K is assigned to the heart. The alphabetic character for each chapter forms the prefix of the 3 and 4 digit codes within it. The strict link between chapters and body systems with specific procedures being listed for individual organs was breached in OPCS-4.3 because of limited capacity.

There are instances where an existing category needs extension because all the available codes have been allocated. In such cases an extended category is created within the Tabular List chapter. These categories are referred to as principal category or extended category and identified by an accompanying note to ease navigation.

Chapters that have reached capacity are extended using alphanumeric categories which are assigned using the free alpha O. This has occurred within three chapters (Chapters L, W and Z). Codes created in this way still form part of an existing chapter even though they have a different alpha prefix to the rest of that chapter. Such new codes will, therefore, logically sit at the end of the body system chapter and are readily identified within the alphabetical index. There is an additional chapter (Chapter X) for operations on multiple systems using miscellaneous procedures.

The classification is published in two volumes. The Tabular List and Alphabetical Index are available from The Stationary office at www.tsoshop.co.uk

OPCS-4 Requests Portal

The OPCS-4 Requests Portal allows stakeholders to submit change requests to the NHS Classification Service all year round. A cut-off date is necessary to support the annual review of requests and business case to proceed with an update to the classification.

More information about this classification and access to the OPCS-4 Requests Portal can be found at:
http://www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/data/clinicalcoding/codingstandards/opcs4/44submissions

High Cost Drugs and Chemotherapy Regimens

The listings of High Cost Drugs and Chemotherapy Regimens which are mapped to OPCS-4 codes are provided as look-up tables downloadable either from:

• the NHS Classifications Service website
  http://www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/data/clinicalcoding/ or
• the Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service website (user registration required)
  https://www.uktcregistration.nss.cfh.nhs.uk/trud/

CONTACT DETAILS

1. General Enquiries about the NHS Data Model and Dictionary:

   NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service
   NHS Connecting for Health
   Princes Exchange
   Princes Square
   Leeds
   LS1 4HY

   Email: datastandards@nhs.net

   NHS Data Model and Dictionary Service Website: http://www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/data/datamodeldictionary
3. 
   
4. The NHS Information Standards Board:

   The NHS Information Standards Board
   Princes Exchange 
   Princes Square
   Leeds
   LS1 4HY

   Internet: http://www.isb.nhs.uk/

5. Hospital Episode Statistics (HES):

   Website: HES online

   Queries: HES queries

6. Clinical Coding general enquiries:

   International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10)
   Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures Fourth Revision Consolidated Version (OPCS-4);
   Clinical Terms (The Read Codes);
   SNOMED CT® (Systematised Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms)

   For all general enquiries, contact:

   NHS Connecting for Health
   Data Standards and Products Help Desk
   E-mail: datastandards@nhs.net

   • Electronic copies of International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) Volumes 1, 2 and 3
     • The ICD-10 metadata file and its specification;
     • The ICD-10 Codes and Titles (on diskette);
     • The ICD-10 Tables of Equivalence (on diskette);
   • The Alphabetical Index of Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures (Fourth Revision Consolidated Version (OPCS-4) in hard copy;
     • Electronic format of Index and Tabular List of OPCS-4;
     • OPCS-4 metadata file and its specification;
   • Clinical Terms (The Read Codes) and SNOMED CT® (Systematised Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms) are released to licensees every six months (March and September) via the Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service (TRUD).

     Information on the Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service (TRUD) can be found at: https://www.uktcregistration.nss.cfh.nhs.uk/trud/

     Hard copy versions of ICD-10 and the Tabular List of OPCS-4 are available from The Stationery Office (formerly HMSO).

7. Clinical Coding general enquiries:

   International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10);
   OPCS-4 Classification of Interventions and Procedures;
   Clinical Terms (The Read Codes);
   SNOMED CT (Systematised Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms)

   For all general enquiries, contact:

   NHS Connecting for Health
   Data Standards and Products Help Desk
   E-mail: datastandards@nhs.net
   Website: http://www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/data/clinicalcoding/

   • Electronic copies of International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) Volumes 1, 2 and 3
     • The ICD-10 metadata file and its specification;
     • The ICD-10 Codes and Titles (on diskette);
     • The ICD-10 Tables of Equivalence (on diskette);
   • OPCS-4 Classification of Interventions and Procedures;
     • OPCS-4 Codes and Titles;
     • OPCS-4 metadata file;
     • OPCS-4 Tables of Coding Equivalence;
     • Electronic format of Index and Tabular List of OPCS-4;
   • Clinical Terms (The Read Codes) and SNOMED CT® (Systematised Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms) are released to licensees every six months (March and September) via the Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service (TRUD).

     Information on the Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service (TRUD) can be found at: https://www.uktcregistration.nss.cfh.nhs.uk/trud/

     Hard copy versions of ICD-10 and the Tabular List of OPCS-4 are available from The Stationery Office (formerly HMSO).

8. Organisation Data Service Queries:

   Organisation Data Service
   Hexagon House
   Pynes Hill
   Rydon Lane
   Exeter
   Devon EX2 5SE

   exeter.helpdesk@nhs.net
   Tel: 01392 251 289

   Link ODS Organisation Data Service website pages:

   • NHSnet pages where data is published: http://nww.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/ods/
   • Public domain pages: http://www.nhs.uk/ods/
   • Information pages on the NHS Connecting for Health website:
     http://www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/data/standards/ods/index_html

   Information on the Terminology Reference Data Update Distribution Service can be found at: https://www.uktcregistration.nss.cfh.nhs.uk/trud/

9. Postcodes:

   Postcode and Geographic Area Queries
   All Fields Postcode Directory
   Areas of Residence Classification
   NHS Organisation Manual
   1991 Frozen Postcode File
   Communal Establishment File

   Office for National Statistics Geography Customer Services Unit
   Office for National Statistics
   Segensworth Road
   Titchfield
   Fareham
   Hants
   PO15 5RR

   1991 Frozen Postcode File
   Communal Establishment File

   Tel: 01329 813243 or 813477
   Fax: 01329 813383
   e-mail: ons.geography@ons.gov.uk
   Internet: http://www.statistics.gov.uk

1. The Read Coded Clinical Terms are a comprehensive computerised coded thesaurus for use by clinicians. They are available in three main formats, known as Version 3, Version 2 and the 4-Byte sets, and are designed for use in the electronic health care record. Version 3 of the Read Codes is a "Superset" of the earlier versions as it contains all codes and terms from Version 2 and the 4-Byte set.

2. Read Coded Clinical Terms may be used for coding within local systems but are not acceptable directly for coding Hospital Episode Statistics which are extracted from Admitted Patient Care Commissioning Data Set. Version 3 and Version 2 of the Read Codes both, however, contain mapping tables which can be used to generate ICD-10 and OPCS-4 codes.

3. Read Coded Clinical Terms may be used for coding within local systems but are not acceptable directly for coding Hospital Episode Statistics which are extracted from Admitted Patient Care Commissioning Data Set. Version 3 and Version 2 of the Read Codes both, however, contain mapping tables which can be used to generate ICD-10 and OPCS-4 codes.

4. For further information; see Contact Details.

SECURITY ISSUES AND PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY

• A. Removal of name and address where the NHS Number is present

• From 1 April 1999, PATIENT NAME and PATIENT USUAL ADDRESS (not POSTCODE OF USUAL ADDRESS) must be removed from all Commissioning Data Sets where a valid NHS NUMBER is present. This applies to all nationally defined Commissioning Data Set data and any additional locally agreed flows from service providers to commissioning bodies.

• A valid NHS NUMBER is one that has passed the check digit calculation on entry into the source system. If an NHS NUMBER is not valid (i.e. does not conform with the check digit algorithm) then PATIENT NAMES and PATIENT USUAL ADDRESSES should not be removed, as the reliability of the NHS NUMBER will not be known.

• The NHS NUMBER STATUS INDICATOR is a mandatory part of the Commissioning Data Set. PATIENT NAME and PATIENT USUAL ADDRESS should be removed when a valid NHS NUMBER is present, even if the NHS NUMBER STATUS INDICATOR does not have a status of 01, Number present and verified.

  B. Marital Status

• Following the recommendations of the Data Protection Registrar, Providers should not record MARITAL STATUS in any CDS TYPE, except in respect of the psychiatric specialities in the Admitted Patient Care CDS Types, where it will continue to be recorded.

  C. Sensitive data

• The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 as amended by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology (Disclosure of Information) Act 1992 imposes statutory restrictions on the disclosure of information about identifiable individuals in connection with certain infertility treatments. A list of the relevant codes is given in Table 1. In these cases the NHS NUMBER, LOCAL PATIENT IDENTIFIER, PATIENT NAMES, POSTCODE OF USUAL ADDRESS and BIRTH DATE should be omitted from the CDS Types.

• Other statutory restrictions on the disclosure of PATIENT information do not prohibit the disclosure to individuals involved with the treatment and prevention of certain specific diseases (HIV/AIDS and venereal diseases) in the population.

  TABLE 1: TREATMENTS PROVIDED UNDER THE LICENCE OF THE HUMAN FERTILISATION AND EMBRYOLOGY AUTHORITY

  Description	OPCS-4	ICD-10
  Standard In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)	Q13.-1 Introduction of gamete into uterine cavity, or Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) with donor sperm	Q13.- 1 Introduction of gamete into uterine cavity, or Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) with donor eggs	Q13.-1 Introduction of gamete into uterine cavity, or Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  Donor insemination (DI)	Q13.3 Intrauterine artificial insemination, or Q13.2 Intracervical artificial insemination	Z31.1 Artificial insemination
  Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) with donor sperm	Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.3 Other assisted fertilization methods
  Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) with donor eggs	Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.3Other assisted fertilization methods
  Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
  Sub-zonal insemination (SUZI)
  Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)	Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  Partial Zona Dissection (PZD)
  Zona drilling
  Hamster- egg penetration test
  Assisted hatching
  Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
  Storage of sperm
  Storage of embryos
  Use and storage of testicular tissue
  Transport/satellite In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) / Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
  Embryo donation		Z31.8 Other procreative management
  Research

  ¹.- means all fourth characters of this rubric should be included.

• Other statutory restrictions on the disclosure of PATIENT information do not prohibit the disclosure to individuals involved with the treatment and prevention of certain specific diseases (HIV/AIDS and venereal diseases) in the population.

  TABLE 1: TREATMENTS PROVIDED UNDER THE LICENCE OF THE HUMAN FERTILISATION AND EMBRYOLOGY AUTHORITY

  Description	OPCS-4*	ICD-10
  Standard In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)	Q13.-1 Introduction of gamete into uterine cavity, or Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) with donor sperm	Q13.- 1 Introduction of gamete into uterine cavity, or Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) with donor eggs	Q13.-1 Introduction of gamete into uterine cavity, or Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  Donor insemination (DI)	Q13.3 Intrauterine artificial insemination, or Q13.2 Intracervical artificial insemination	Z31.1 Artificial insemination
  Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) with donor sperm	Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.3 Other assisted fertilization methods
  Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) with donor eggs	Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.3Other assisted fertilization methods
  Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
  Sub-zonal insemination (SUZI)
  Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)	Q38.3 Endoscopic intrafallopian transfer of gamete	Z31.2 In vitro fertilization
  Partial Zona Dissection (PZD)
  Zona drilling
  Hamster- egg penetration test
  Assisted hatching
  Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)
  Storage of sperm
  Storage of embryos
  Use and storage of testicular tissue
  Transport/satellite In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) / Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
  Embryo donation		Z31.8 Other procreative management
  Research

  ¹.- means all fourth characters of this rubric should be included.
  * see OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures

• All records containing patient identifiable information, other than those covered by the Human Fertilisation & Embryology Acts, as outlined in the Table above, should be treated as sensitive. Organisations may continue to exchange records containing NHS NUMBER, POSTCODE OF USUAL ADDRESS and BIRTH DATE in these cases, but receiving organisations must ensure that only those staff with legitimate need have access to this information, e.g. public health departments, and strictly on a need to know basis. No-one should have unrestricted access unless fully justified in accordance with the principles of the Caldicott Committee Report.

• Where PATIENT level data is required for other purposes within an organisation, it should be anonymised/aggregated prior to disclosure by someone with legitimate access. If this is not practicable, local protocols defining which CDS TYPES are particularly sensitive (including, but not necessarily restricted to HIV/AIDS and venereal disease) agreed by the organisation Caldicott Guardian, should be put in place and identifiers stripped from these records.

• Your Caldicott Guardian will be able to advise you further on all issues relating to patient confidentiality.

• Where appropriate, further information about confidentiality is contained within the notes for individual data items.

This identifies the clinical classification code which may be applied to a CLINICAL INTERVENTION. For example OPCS-4 operative procedure code. For example OPCS-4 operative procedure code.

A subtype of CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION.

A unique code identifying an operation which can be performed on a PATIENT. The coding structure is provided by the Office for National Statistics and defined in the OPCS Operations Classification, 4th Revision.

A classification of the part of the body that is the subject of an Imaging Or Radiodiagnostic Event.

The coding frame used is the OPCS 'Z' coding.The coding frame used is the OPCS-4 'Z' coding.

References:
National Cancer Dataset Version 1.3_ISB October 2002

A unique identifier for a CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION, for example this could be an OPCS-4 code or a Read code.A unique identifier for a CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION, for example this could be an OPCS-4 code or a Read code.

The codes for both OPCS-4 and Read are maintained by NHS Connecting for Health.The codes for both OPCS-4 and Read are maintained by NHS Connecting for Health.

This could also be a PATIENT DIAGNOSIS.

See International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and Read Coded Clinical Terms.

Diagnoses should be classified where possible using ICD-10 or other classification codes approved centrally for mapping to ICD-10 codes. Clinical Terms (The Read Codes) can be used in addition to ICD-10 codes for Patient Diagnosis. However Clinical Terms (The Read Codes) are not accepted for the purposes of central Hospital Episode Statistics data, where ICD-10 is mandatory.

ICD-10 diagnostic codes are at least four characters in length. The first character is always alphabetic. Where an undivided three character code is used, the fourth character must be filled with 'X'.

Fifth characters should be used in accordance with the guidance in Introduction.Fifth characters should be used in accordance with the guidance in International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). Where they are not used the character must be filled with a '-'. The sixth character of the code is used to designate an asterisk or dagger indicator in ICD-10; it may be an 'A' or 'D'.

An indication that a PATIENT requires an IMPLANT as a result of a Patient Procedure. Please note that other OPCS-4 codes can be used only where applicable. Please note that other OPCS-4 codes can be used only where applicable.

Examples are:

References:
National Joint Registry Dataset: v.1: 24th March 2003 

Notes:
This is the code value list of OPCS codes used to:This is the code value list of OPCS-4 codes used to:

• monitor specific targets (001 and 002), i.e. the "Patients waiting longer than three months (13 weeks) for revascularisation" target and
• monitor waiting times (003 and 004) for other cardiovascular related procedures that are not specifically included in the target above.
• monitor specific targets (0001 and 0002), i.e. the "Patients waiting longer than three months (13 weeks) for revascularisation" target and
• monitor waiting times (0003 and 0004) for other cardiovascular related procedures that are not specifically included in the target above.

The groupings are based upon specified OPCS-4 codes as recorded by the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE of the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION which is an OPERATIVE PROCEDURE for the PLANNED ACTIVITY of an ELECTIVE ADMISSION LIST ENTRY for a PATIENT being admitted electively.The groupings are based upon specified OPCS-4 codes as recorded by the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE of the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION which is an OPERATIVE PROCEDURE for the PLANNED ACTIVITY of an ELECTIVE ADMISSION LIST ENTRY for a PATIENT being admitted electively.

When the OPCS-4 code of the OPERATIVE PROCEDURE is within the range of the specified ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE for the sub group within the data set, the PATIENT should be included in the count providing all the other criteria of the count are also met.When the OPCS-4 code of the OPERATIVE PROCEDURE is within the range of the specified ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE for the sub group within the data set, the PATIENT should be included in the count providing all the other criteria of the count are also met.

An Intended Patient Procedure is a PLANNED ACTIVITY where PLANNED ACTIVITY TYPE is National Code 04 'Intended Patient Procedure'.

One of the following values can be set:

Notes:
This is the number of NHS PATIENTS admitted to a Hospital Provider Spell of an NHS provider within the REPORTING PERIOD for planned treatment activity for a particular ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE.

That is where the ORGANISATION TYPE of the Health Care Provider ORGANISATION is classification c 'NHS Trust' or x 'Primary Care Trust' and the OPCS-4 code as recorded by the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE of the OPERATIVE PROCEDURE is within the group range of ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE.That is where the ORGANISATION TYPE of the Health Care Provider ORGANISATION is classification c 'NHS Trust' or x 'Primary Care Trust' and the OPCS-4 code as recorded by the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE of the OPERATIVE PROCEDURE is within the group range of ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE.

Notes:
This is the number of NHS PATIENTS admitted to a Hospital Provider Spell of a registered or unregistered non-NHS provider ORGANISATION within the REPORTING PERIOD for planned treatment activity for a particular ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE.

That is where the ORGANISATION TYPE of the Health Care Provider ORGANISATION is classification q. 'Registered non-NHS Provider' or r. 'Unregistered non-NHS Provider (except Local Authority)' and the ADMINISTRATIVE CATEGORY CODE current at the START DATE of the Hospital Provider Spell is National Code 01 'NHS patient' and the OPCS-4 code as recorded by the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE of the OPERATIVE PROCEDURE is within the group range of ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE. 'Unregistered non-NHS Provider (except Local Authority)' and the ADMINISTRATIVE CATEGORY CODE current at the START DATE of the Hospital Provider Spell is National Code 01 'NHS patient' and the OPCS-4 code as recorded by the CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE of the OPERATIVE PROCEDURE is within the group range of ADMISSION INTENDED PROCEDURE.

Notes:

References:
Department of Health: Monthly and Quarterly/Biannual Diagnostics statistics

Notes:

Notes:

References:
Department of Health: Monthly and Quarterly/Biannual Diagnostics statistics

Notes:

Notes:

Notes:

References:
Department of Health: Monthly and Quarterly/Biannual Diagnostics statistics

Notes:

This is the use of high cost drugs as per OPCS definitions provided as a CARE ACTIVITY.This is the use of high cost drugs as per OPCS-4 definitions provided as a CARE ACTIVITY.

The HRG DOMINANT GROUPING VARIABLE-PROCEDURES is a field derived by the Healthcare Resource Group Acute Inpatient Grouper. It represents the procedure that the Healthcare Resource Group grouping algorithm has identified as having the greatest effect upon the resources consumed by a PATIENT. It is required for the production of the National Schedule of Reference Costs reports.

The HRG DOMINANT GROUPING VARIABLE-PROCEDURES have the same data format, rules and attributes as OPCS-4 codes for Patient Procedure, see also PROCEDURE CODING.The HRG DOMINANT GROUPING VARIABLE-PROCEDURES have the same data format, rules and attributes as OPCS-4 codes for Patient Procedure, see also PROCEDURE CODING.

DSCN 08/2000 includes HRG DOMINANT GROUPING VARIABLE-PROCEDURES in the Commissioning Data Set to standardise the handling of this data item within the Commissioning Data Set and the Secondary Uses Service database. It is mandatory from 01/10/2001.

Patient Procedure is a CLINICAL INTERVENTION where CLINICAL INTERVENTION TYPE is National Code 25 'Patient Procedure'.

'Primary' is a classification of PATIENT PROCEDURE CODING SIGNIFICANCE of INTERVENTION CLASSIFICATION ASSOCIATION for the OPCS code of an OPERATIVE PROCEDURE.'Primary' is a classification of PATIENT PROCEDURE CODING SIGNIFICANCE of INTERVENTION CLASSIFICATION ASSOCIATION for the OPCS-4 code of an OPERATIVE PROCEDURE.

'Primary' is a classification of PATIENT PROCEDURE CODING SIGNIFICANCE of INTERVENTION CLASSIFICATION ASSOCIATION for the OPCS code of an OPERATIVE PROCEDURE.'Primary' is a classification of PATIENT PROCEDURE CODING SIGNIFICANCE of INTERVENTION CLASSIFICATION ASSOCIATION for the OPCS-4 code of an OPERATIVE PROCEDURE.

This is a CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE.

See OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures for Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures (OPCS - 4) and Read Coded Clinical Terms.See OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures for Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures (OPCS-4) and Read Coded Clinical Terms.

Record any operative procedures carried out, such as an endoscopy or electro-convulsive therapy (ECT), as part of the current consultant episode.

Clinical Terms (The Read Codes) (an7) may be used as an optional addition to OPCS-4.Clinical Terms (The Read Codes) (an7) may be used as an optional addition to OPCS-4.

The recording of procedures using OPCS-4 is now optional for the Out-Patient/Ward Attenders Commissiong Data Set. If required, a default procedure code may be used in the first procedure field and subsequent procedure fields space-filled.The recording of procedures using OPCS-4 is now optional for the Out-Patient/Ward Attenders Commissioning Data Set. If required, a default code may be used in the first procedure field and subsequent procedure fields space-filled.

The default codes are classified as entries in the Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures Fourth Revision Consolidated Version (OPCS-4).Where providers locally use OPCS-4 codes with a fifth character added, this should be removed before inclusion in the Commissioning Data Set.

Where providers locally use OPCS-4 codes with a fifth character added, this should be removed before inclusion in the Commissioning Data Set.

Notes:
Records the PROCEDURE CODING identified in the following relevant procedures associated with the diabetic condition.

OPCS-4 CodesOPCS-4 Codes

Read Version 3.1 is not supported in the Commissioning Data Set.

CDS-XML Message:

Notes:
RESPONSIBLE CARE PROFESSIONAL CODE (OPCS) is the GENERAL MEDICAL COUNCIL (GMC) NUMBER, Dental Practice Board or other professional registration code for the CARE PROFESSIONAL undertaking the OPCS-4 classified operative Patient Procedure.RESPONSIBLE CARE PROFESSIONAL CODE (OPCS) is the GENERAL MEDICAL COUNCIL (GMC) NUMBER, Dental Practice Board or other professional registration code for the CARE PROFESSIONAL undertaking the OPCS-4 classified operative Patient Procedure. This will usually, but not exclusively, be the lead care professional or a junior member of the same team.

Where the actual professional registration code is unknown or the professional is not a doctor or a dentist, the appropriate default code should be used.

Patient Procedure is a CLINICAL INTERVENTION where CLINICAL INTERVENTION TYPE is National Code 25 'Patient Procedure'.

Notes:
SARCOMA TUMOUR SITE is the same as the attribute CLINICAL CLASSIFICATION CODE

The body site classification of a sarcoma tumour, at a more detailed level than ICD-10 based on OPCS 'Z' coding for a sarcoma tumour.The body site classification of a sarcoma tumour, at a more detailed level than ICD-10 based on OPCS-4 'Z' coding for a sarcoma tumour.

National Codes:

Additional to OPCS codes