In SNOWMED-CT, what term describes how concepts are linked to one another?

In SNOMED CT, the term that describes how concepts are linked to one another is "Relationship." This term encapsulates the way that various clinical concepts interact with or relate to each other within the SNOMED CT framework. Relationships define the specific nature of each connection, detailing, for example, whether one concept is a more general category of another (is-a relationship) or if they are related by a particular context (such as associated findings or procedures).

Understanding relationships is crucial for effectively navigating and utilizing SNOMED CT, as it enables clinicians and data analysts to accurately interpret the complex web of clinical data. Each relationship can carry significant implications for clinical decision support, data analytics, and interoperability in health information systems, making this a foundational component of the system's architecture.

The other options, while they might seem relevant, do not capture the specificity and function of the term as it is used within SNOMED CT. "Association" and "connection" are more general terms that do not convey the technical meaning found in the SNOMED CT context, while "linkage" suggests a more casual or less defined relationship than what is specifically indicated by "relationship."