Hl7 implementation guide

Question

I am trying to get the hl7 descriptor, and so far I am pretty clear on data structures and coding protocols. Where I remain mystified is the actual mechanics of implementation, for example. request sequence, ack, response, ack and things like I need to get ack, etc., what if I get nack / no ack, etc.

Any pointers on where to start looking for these things?

Answer 1

There are a number of resources that can help you with the details of your implementation of HL7. I highly recommend becoming a member of HL7.org as they have current and detailed implementation guides. You can also find other resources on the Internet:

1) HL7 v2.3.1 Implementation Guide
Chapter 2 References Special attention.

2) HL7.org Wiki
Here is the HL7 v2 FAQ

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,
Jeff

Jeff Couch
http://www.uberops.com
http://blog.uberops.com - News, Trends and Breakthroughs in the World of Health Data Integration

Answer 2

Interfaceware offers a useful introductory resource in HL7 version 2.

It is also useful to remember that HL7 v2 and HL7 v3 are very different standards based on different messaging technologies. The standard authority for HL7 recently released some of its licensing restrictions, making some of its resources available for free.