Announcing version 2.0 of the OpenHIE Architecture Specification

By: News
Posted On: November 19, 2019

The OpenHIE Architecture Specification Version 2.0 is now available from the OpenHIE web site.  

OpenHIE is a Global Mission-Driven Community of Practice dedicated to improving the health of the underserved through open and collaborative, development and support of country driven, large scale health information sharing architectures. The OpenHIE community supports interoperability by creating a reusable architectural framework that introduces a service oriented approach, maximally leverages health information standards, enables flexible implementation by country partners, and supports interchangeability of individual components.

The newest OpenHIE Architecture Specification outlines the reusable architectural framework and data exchange practices that constitute OpenHIE.  However, the framework is intended to be constantly evolving as standards and implementer needs change over time. Therefore the OpenHIE Architecture Specification is a living document created by the OpenHIE Community and based upon real-world implementations and needs. 

The purpose of the specification release is to:  

  • Articulate what is needed to be an OpenHIE component or part of the architecture
  • Articulate the workflows that are currently recognized as patterns to follow
  • Provide a reference for implementers to use in eHealth architecture and/or implementations if needed

We believe that diverse input and viewpoints make the architecture stronger.  You are encouraged to provide comments, propose edits, or other suggestions for future specification versions on our feedback page. If you have questions or need help unrelated to this guide, please contact us. In addition, the OpenHIE Architecture Community invites your collaborative input as we move forward together.   Please join us in this journey of establishing data exchange practices and patterns. Our meeting schedule is posted on the OpenHIE wiki.  

Written By: Jennifer Shivers, OpenHIE Associate Architect