Introduction of Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine-Clinical Terms Coding Into an Electronic Health Record and Evaluation of its Impact: Qualitative and Quantitative Study

BACKGROUND: This study describes the conversion within an existing electronic health record (EHR) from the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision coding system to the SNOMED-CT (Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine-Clinical Terms) for the collection of patient histories and diagnoses. The setting is a large acute hospital that is designing and building its own EHR. Well-designed EHRs create opportunities for continuous data collection, which can be used in clinical decision support rules to drive patient safety. Collected data can be exchanged across health care systems to support patients in all health care settings. Data can be used for research to prevent diseases and protect future populations.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to migrate a current EHR, with all relevant patient data, to the SNOMED-CT coding system to optimize clinical use and clinical decision support, facilitate data sharing across organizational boundaries for national programs, and enable remodeling of medical pathways.

METHODS: The study used qualitative and quantitative data to understand the successes and gaps in the project, clinician attitudes toward the new tool, and the future use of the tool.

RESULTS: The new coding system (tool) was well received and immediately widely used in all specialties. This resulted in increased, accurate, and clinically relevant data collection. Clinicians appreciated the increased depth and detail of the new coding, welcomed the potential for both data sharing and research, and provided extensive feedback for further development.

CONCLUSIONS: Successful implementation of the new system aligned the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust with national strategy and can be used as a blueprint for similar projects in other health care settings.