> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.snomed.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.snomed.org/snomed-ct-practical-guides/snomed-ct-ehr-requirements-guide/6-storage.md).

# Storage

How SNOMED CT is used and stored against patient records is another factor that can drive a successful implementation or not. The use of the SNOMED CT concept identifier is a mandatory requirement and for all the points in this section, it is important that implementations are quality assured and prove that these requirements are met.

1. Must store SNOMED CT concept identifiers in the health records
2. Store the SNOMED CT concept identifier (or SNOMED CT expression) together with the term selected by the user in the EHR for SNOMED CT coded data element.
3. Ensure that the context of each SNOMED CT concept identifier or expression is clearly represented in either the information structure or the terminology (but not both).
4. Ensure that all inactivated concepts, descriptions and relationships remain available to support querying over historical clinical data.

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