What is FHIR?
Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources
Trusted by leading diagnostic labs and life sciences companies
- FHIR
- FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) is a modern healthcare data exchange standard developed by HL7. It uses web-based APIs and JSON/XML formats, making it easier for laboratory systems to integrate with modern healthcare applications compared to legacy HL7 v2 messages.
FHIR represents the evolution of healthcare interoperability, combining the best features of previous standards with modern web technologies. Its RESTful architecture makes it accessible to developers familiar with web APIs, accelerating integration projects and reducing complexity.
FHIR vs HL7 v2
FHIR (Modern)
- RESTful API architecture
- JSON and XML support
- Resource-based data model
- Web developer friendly
- Built-in validation and profiles
HL7 v2 (Legacy)
- Pipe-delimited message format
- TCP/IP socket connections
- Message-based paradigm
- Requires specialized expertise
- High implementation variability
Lab-Specific FHIR Resources
DiagnosticReport
Lab results with interpretations and reference ranges
Observation
Individual test results and measurements
ServiceRequest
Test orders from providers
Specimen
Sample collection and processing information
Patient
Patient demographics and identifiers
Practitioner
Ordering and performing provider information
Implementation Considerations
Choose appropriate FHIR implementation guides
Plan for authentication (OAuth 2.0, SMART)
Consider bulk data operations for large datasets
Map existing data to FHIR resources
Test with FHIR validation tools
Plan for versioning and updates
Consider hybrid approaches (FHIR + v2)
Evaluate vendor FHIR capabilities