Which resource is best for defining the structure of an Electronic Health Record (EHR)?

The HL7 Functional Model is the best resource for defining the structure of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) because it provides a comprehensive framework that outlines the functionality, capabilities, and specifications necessary for the effective use of EHR systems. This model is developed by Health Level Seven International (HL7), an organization focused on standards for the exchange of health information. The Functional Model specifically identifies the various components and features an EHR should encompass to ensure interoperability and usability across different healthcare settings.

HL7's Functional Model establishes a common language and structured approach that allows healthcare organizations to implement EHR systems in a standardized manner, enabling better integration with other health information systems and promoting seamless data exchange. It encompasses various aspects such as data capture, storage, and retrieval, as well as the workflow processes associated with patient health records.

In contrast, LOINC is primarily focused on the standardized vocabulary for laboratory and clinical observations, and it does not define the overall structure of an EHR. SDOH (Social Determinants of Health) refers to social factors affecting health outcomes but does not directly relate to the structural specifications of EHRs. XML Schema, while useful for structuring data in a markup language, does not specifically address the functional requirements and capabilities