The NHS Data Dictionary and the NHS Data Manual were originally published separately. The elements of both these publications have been consolidated into one browsable integrated publication called the NHS Data Model and Dictionary.
NHS Data Standards
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary gives common definitions and guidance to support the sharing, exchange and comparison of information across the NHS. The common definitions, known as data standards, are used in commissioning and make up the base currency of Commissioning Data Sets. On the monitoring side, they support comparative data analysis, preparation of performance tables, and data returned to the Department of Health. NHS data standards also support clinical messages, such as those used for pathology and radiology. NHS data standards are presented as a logical data model, ensuring that the standards are consistent and integrated across all NHS business areas.
NHS data standards should not just be seen as supporting the collection of data on a consistent basis throughout the NHS. They also have an important role in supporting the flow and quality of information used in different parts of the NHS so that health care professionals are presented with the relevant information where and when it is required. An example of this is the linking of all records about a PATIENT collected in different parts of the NHS, to be available to a health CARE PROFESSIONAL wherever the PATIENT attends to be seen for treatment, thus facilitating the Electronic Patient Record.
Changes to NHS Data Standards are published as Information Standards Notices by the Information Standards Board for Health and Social Care.
The NHS Data Model and Dictionary Items
| Classes | Each Class contains its nationally agreed definition, the Attributes associated with that Class and the relationships it has with other Classes. Classes |
| Attributes | Each Attribute contains its nationally agreed definition and may also include its National Codes or classifications and a clickable 'Data Element' tab if a Data Element is based on the Attribute. Attributes |
| Data Elements | Data Elements may be supported by an Attribute definition i.e. the Data Element has the same name as an Attribute; be a derived item which is derivable from Attributes; or only exist as a Data Element. Data Elements |
| NHS Business Definitions | Each NHS Business Definition consists of freestanding text which describes an aspect of NHS activity and provides an outline of the business rules which should be applied to the activity. NHS Business Definitions |
| Commissioning Data Sets | The Commissioning Data Set is the basic structure used for the submission of commissioning data to the Secondary Uses Service. Commissioning Data Set Overview |
| Central Return Data Sets | The development of Central Return Data Sets supports: information requirements of national and local performance management, planning and clinical governance; assurance of the quality of health and social care services and the monitoring of National Service Frameworks (NSFs). Central Return Data Sets Introduction |
| Central Return Forms | The Department of Health uses the information gathered from Central Returns to monitor service provision at a high level and to support trend analysis for health service activity and health needs assessment. Central Return Forms Introduction |
| Diagrams | The NHS Data Model and Dictionary has a small set of diagrams which represent parts of the NHS Data Model. The diagrams show the relationships between the classes and the relationship cardinality. Diagrams Introduction |
| Supporting Information | Supporting Information provides information to help users understand the NHS Data Model and Dictionary. Supporting Information Introduction |