Standards for interoperability: new challenges

Strategies for implementation of information systems have mainly focused on the implementation of different models of electronic medical records systems and solutions for specific departments. The next step is to make these systems share and exchange information and assistance that generate accessible citizens. For it, must be structured in a coherent and give a semantic content to allow interoperability between systems. This can be done if it is based on the standards, since they ensure consistency, scientific support and critical mass. The Department of Health of the Generalitat of Catalonia, through the office of standards and interoperability TicSalut Foundation, carried out the deployment of standards that facilitate interoperability between the centers not only in Catalonia but also with a global vision. (C) 2010 Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.