FHIR
Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources, a modern RESTful API standard for exchanging healthcare data using JSON or XML resources.
FHIR (pronounced "fire") was developed by HL7 International as a next-generation standard. It defines resources like Patient, Observation, and Encounter that map to clinical concepts. FHIR R4 is the current normative release. ONC regulations (21st Century Cures Act) require certified EHRs to support FHIR-based patient access APIs. SMART on FHIR adds OAuth2-based authorization for third-party apps.
FAQ
- What does FHIR stand for?
- Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources. It is a standard from HL7 International for exchanging healthcare information electronically.
- Is FHIR replacing HL7v2?
- FHIR is the strategic direction, but HL7v2 will persist for years in existing hospital interfaces. Most organizations run both in parallel.