About the Framework
The SNOMED International Implementation Maturity Framework (SNOMED IMF) supports the effective adoption and integration of SNOMED CT across healthcare systems, organizations, and jurisdictions. It offers a structured approach to assess, guide, and enhance the maturity of SNOMED CT implementations over time.
Introduction
SNOMED CT is a comprehensive, multilingual clinical terminology that enables semantic interoperability and enhances healthcare outcomes by standardizing clinical data. However, to realize its full potential, SNOMED CT must be effectively implemented, integrated, and maintained within complex healthcare environments.
To address these challenges, SNOMED International developed the Implementation Maturity Framework - a tool to help stakeholders:
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Evaluate their current use of SNOMED CT
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Identify opportunities for growth
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Set strategic goals for progressive and sustainable implementation
Influencing Models
The SNOMED IMF draws on best practices from established maturity frameworks across various industries. Key reference models include:
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SPICE (ISO/IEC 15504): A model for assessing and improving software processes. It emphasizes structured evaluation and continuous improvement.
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CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration): A widely adopted framework providing staged pathways to improve organizational processes in development, services, and acquisition.
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HIMSS Maturity Models: Healthcare-specific models that evaluate the adoption and optimization of digital health technologies, including terminologies like SNOMED CT.
These models share a common goal: to provide structured, measurable pathways to maturity. The SNOMED IMF incorporates these principles, offering:
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Defined levels of maturity
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A focus on ongoing improvement
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Alignment with healthcare priorities and interoperability goals
Objectives
The SNOMED IMF draws on best practices from established maturity frameworks across various industries. Key reference models include:
-
SPICE (ISO/IEC 15504): A model for assessing and improving software processes. It emphasizes structured evaluation and continuous improvement.
-
CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration): A widely adopted framework providing staged pathways to improve organizational processes in development, services, and acquisition.
-
HIMSS Maturity Models: Healthcare-specific models that evaluate the adoption and optimization of digital health technologies, including terminologies like SNOMED CT.
These models share a common goal: to provide structured, measurable pathways to maturity. The SNOMED IMF incorporates these principles, offering:
-
Defined levels of maturity
-
A focus on ongoing improvement
-
Alignment with healthcare priorities and interoperability goals
Who Is It For?
The SNOMED IMF is tailored to support three primary stakeholder groups:
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Members (National Release Centers): Responsible for national-level governance and promotion of SNOMED CT
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User Organizations: Healthcare providers and institutions implementing SNOMED CT-enabled systems
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Vendors: Developers of SNOMED CT-enabled technologies and tools
Each group receives targeted guidance and tools for self-assessment and continuous improvement.
Areas of Assessment
The framework applies to all healthcare environments where SNOMED CT is used and assesses maturity across six key domains:
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Governance & Strategy – Leadership, policy, and governance structures
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Technical Readiness – System integration, data architecture, and tool support
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Semantic Interoperability – Terminology services, mapping, and data consistency
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Education & Workforce Capacity – Training programs, staff skills, and ongoing support
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Adoption & Usage – Integration into clinical workflows and real-world application
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Evaluation & Continuous Improvement – Metrics, feedback loops, and iterative refinement