The HL7 EHR System Functional Model provides a reference list of functions that may be present in an Electronic Health Record System (EHR-S). The function list is described from a user perspective with the intent to enable consistent expression of system functionality. This EHR-S Functional Model, through the creation of Functional Profiles for care settings, realms, services and specialties, enables a standardized description and common understanding of functions sought or available in a given setting (e.g., intensive care, cardiology, office practice in one country or primary care in another country).

The HL7 EHR-S Functional Model defines a standardized model of the functions that may be present in EHR Systems. From the outset, a clear distinction between the EHR as a singular entity and systems that operate on the EHR – i.e., EHR Systems is critical. This Standard makes no distinction regarding implementation - the EHR-S described in a Functional Profile may be a single system or a system of systems. Within the normative sections of the Functional Model, the term “system” is used generically to cover the continuum of implementation options. This includes “core” healthcare functionality, typically provided by healthcare-specific applications that manage electronic healthcare information. It also includes associated generic application-level capabilities that are typically provided by middleware or other infrastructure components. The latter includes interoperability and integration capabilities such as location discovery and such areas as cross application workflow. Interoperability is considered both from semantic (clear, consistent and persistent communication of meaning) and technical (format, syntax and physical connectivity) viewpoints. Further, the functions make no statement about which technology is used, or about the content of the electronic health record. The specifics of 'how' EHR systems are developed or implemented is not considered to be within the scope of this model now or in the future. This EHR-S Functional Model does not address or endorse implementations or technology, nor does it include the data content of the electronic health record.

Finally, the EHR-S Functional Model supports research needs by ensuring that the data available to researchers follow the required protocols for privacy, confidentiality, and security. The diversity of research needs precludes the specific listing of functions that are potentially useful for research.

This Functional Model is not:

It is important to note that the EHR-S Function Model does not include a discussion of clinical processes or the interaction of the healthcare actors. However, ISO 13940 Health Informatics – System of Concepts to Support Continuity of Care, is an international standard that does outline key principles and processes in the provision of healthcare. It is recommended that users of the EHR-S FM refer to this standard for clinical processes that EHR systems support.

This EHR-S Functional Model package includes both Reference and Normative sections. Table 1 explains the differences between Reference and Normative sections.

Each section within this document is clearly labeled "Normative" if it is normative. For example, in section 5 (Overview) section 5.3 is normative. In section 7, Conformance Clause; sections 7.1 through 7.6 are normative.

In the external Annex A, Function List, the Function ID, Function Name, Function Statement, and Conformance Criteria components are Normative in this Functional Model.