This International Standard defines minimal specifications for directory services for healthcare. It can
be used to enable communications between organizations, devices, servers, application components,
systems, technical actors, and devices.
This International Standard provides the common directory information and services needed to support
the secure exchange of healthcare information over public networks where directory information and
services are used for these purposes. It addresses the health directory from a community perspective
in anticipation of supporting inter-enterprise, inter-jurisdiction, and international healthcare
communications. While several options are supported by this International Standard, a given service
will not need to include all of the options.
In addition to the support of security services, such as access control and confidentiality, this International
Standard provides specification for other aspects of communication, such as addresses and protocols of
communication entities.
This International Standard also supports directory services aiming to support identification of health
professionals and organizations and the subjects of care.