Implementation Guide for Context Representation

The SNOMED CT Implementation Guide for Context Representation provides important guidance for aligning SNOMED CT terminology with healthcare information models. It addresses the challenges of representing clinical context and terminology binding, particularly between SNOMED CT’s “Situation with Explicit Context” hierarchy and models like HL7 FHIR or openEHR. By introducing key principles and practical methods for accurate and interoperable context representation, the guide helps healthcare systems achieve consistency, improve data quality, and support better clinical decision-making. This standardized approach empowers developers and organizations to enable context-aware, interoperable data exchange across the healthcare ecosystem.

---

Introduction

Terminology and Information Models in Healthcare

Use Case

SNOMED CT and Context

Information Models & Terminology Binding

Technical Application

© Copyright 2025 International Health Terminology Standards Development Organisation, all rights reserved.

This document is a publication of International Health Terminology Standards Development Organisation, trading as SNOMED International. SNOMED International owns and maintains SNOMED CT®.

Any modification of this document (including without limitation the removal or modification of this notice) is prohibited without the express written permission of SNOMED International. This document may be subject to updates. Always use the latest version of this document published by SNOMED International. This can be viewed online and downloaded by following the links on the front page or cover of this document.

SNOMED®, SNOMED CT® and IHTSDO® are registered trademarks of International Health Terminology Standards Development Organisation. SNOMED CT® licensing information is available at http://snomed.org/licensing. For more information about SNOMED International and SNOMED International Membership, please refer to http://www.snomed.org or contact us at [email protected].