Health Level Seven (HL7)

Nevada WebIZ Data Entry Methods

There are two ways that data (information) can be entered into the registry: by directly entering data by logging in with a username or via a computer application that utilizes HL7.

Health Level Seven (HL7) is one of several American National Standards Institute (ANSI)–accredited Standards Developing Organizations (SDOs) operating in the health care arena.  Most SDOs produce standards (sometimes called specifications or protocols) for a particular health care domain such as pharmacy, medical devices, imaging or insurance (claims processing) transactions.  HL7’s domain is clinical and administrative data, serving as a standard by which data is exchanged, helping to ensure accuracy.  For more information, visit www.HL7.org.

All immunization records must be entered into Nevada WebIZ.  Many providers enter immunization data into their own electronic medical or health record (EMR or EHR) system.  To comply with Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 439.265, they must also enter that data into Nevada WebIZ.  With the establishment of an HL7 data exchange, information is taken from the EMR/EHR, sent over the internet electronically, and uploaded into Nevada WebIZ, updating the registry immediately.  Using this data entry method eliminates the need for double entry, saving time and money.

HL7 version 2.3.1 must be used when establishing an exchange with Nevada WebIZ.  For more information on versions and requirements, refer to the following documents:

·        HL7 Mandatory Fields (pdf)

·        NV Immunization Registry HL7 Interface Specifications (pdf)

To begin establishing an HL7 data exchange, a provider office must currently meet the following criteria:

·        Use an electronic medical record (EMR) or Electronic Health Record (EHR) system for patient documentation;

·        Able to supply historical (past) immunization data;

·        Able to dedicate staff to this project, especially information technology (IT) staff;

·        Willing to correct data issues (whether in EMR/EHR or from Nevada WebIZ direct entry)- Data integrity is of the utmost importance!;

·        Willing to review and assist in the cleanup of all duplicate patient and vaccination records- this must be completed before HL7 processing begins; and

·        Able to continue data assessment and cleansing once the exchange has begun (“gone live”).

1)    Provider is selected for HL7 exchange;

2)    Data Sharing Agreement is signed;

3)    Provider system is configured to send data to Nevada WebIZ;

4)    Data is reviewed for errors and duplicates;

5)    Data is returned to provider for data cleansing activities;

6)    Data is resent;

7)    Historical data is sent to the test system;

8)    Data is reviewed for errors;

9)    Data is returned to provider for data cleansing activities;

10)  Both parties agree that data is good and historical data is moved to the Production system;

11)  Provider begins sending data in real-time; and

12)  Provider continues to monitor and cleanse data as needed.

If you meet the requirements listed above and would like to participate in the HL7 program, please complete the HL7 application below and submit, Attn: Mandy Harris, by fax at 775-687-7596 or email at asharris@health.nv.gov.

·        HL7 Participant Application (pdf)