Virtually Healthcare HL7 FHIR R4 Implementation Guide
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Virtually Healthcare HL7 FHIR R4 Implementation Guide, published by Virtually Healthcare. This guide is not an authorized publication; it is the continuous build for version 0.1.0-current built by the FHIR (HL7® FHIR® Standard) CI Build. This version is based on the current content of https://github.com/Virtually-Healthcare/HL7-FHIR-Implementation-Guide/ and changes regularly. See the Directory of published versions

Resource Profile: Practitioner - Detailed Descriptions

Draft as of 2024-11-22

Definitions for the Practitioner resource profile.

Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be found here

0. Practitioner
2. Practitioner.extension:role
Slice Namerole
Control0..1
TypeExtension(EMIS Practitioner Role) (Complex Extension)
4. Practitioner.identifier
NoteThis is a business identifier, not a resource identifier (see discussion)
Control1..?
6. Practitioner.identifier.type
BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from Identifier Type
(required to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/IdentifierTypeVH)
8. Practitioner.identifier.system
Control1..?
BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from Practitioner Identifiers
(extensible to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/PractitionerIdentifiers)
10. Practitioner.identifier.value
Control1..?

Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be found here

0. Practitioner
Definition

A person who is directly or indirectly involved in the provisioning of healthcare.

ShortA person with a formal responsibility in the provisioning of healthcare or related services
Control0..*
Is Modifierfalse
Invariantsdom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources (contained.contained.empty())
dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated (contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty())
dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource (contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference | %resource.descendants().as(canonical) | %resource.descendants().as(uri) | %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty())
dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management (text.`div`.exists())
dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label (contained.meta.security.empty())
2. Practitioner.implicitRules
Definition

A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc.

ShortA set of rules under which this content was created
Comments

Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc.

Control0..1
This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
Typeuri
Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because the implicit rules may provide additional knowledge about the resource that modifies it's meaning or interpretation
Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
Summarytrue
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
4. Practitioner.extension:role
Slice Namerole
Definition

EMIS Practitioner Role

ShortEMIS Practitioner Role
Control0..1
This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
TypeExtension(EMIS Practitioner Role) (Complex Extension)
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
6. Practitioner.modifierExtension
Definition

May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource and that modifies the understanding of the element that contains it and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer is allowed to define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored
Comments

There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

Control0..*
This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
TypeExtension
Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the resource that contains them
Standard StatusNormative (from Trial Use)
Requirements

Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

Alternate Namesextensions, user content
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Practitioner.modifierExtension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
  • value @ url
  • 8. Practitioner.identifier
    Definition

    An identifier that applies to this person in this role.

    ShortAn identifier that applies to this person in this role.An identifier for the person as this agent
    NoteThis is a business identifier, not a resource identifier (see discussion)
    Control10..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeIdentifier
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Often, specific identities are assigned for the agent.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    10. Practitioner.identifier.use
    Definition

    The purpose of this identifier.

    Shortusual | official | temp | secondary | old (If known)
    Comments

    Applications can assume that an identifier is permanent unless it explicitly says that it is temporary.

    Control0..1
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from IdentifierUsehttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/identifier-use|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/identifier-use|4.0.1)

    Identifies the purpose for this identifier, if known .

    Typecode
    Is Modifiertrue because This is labeled as "Is Modifier" because applications should not mistake a temporary id for a permanent one.
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Allows the appropriate identifier for a particular context of use to be selected from among a set of identifiers.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    12. Practitioner.identifier.type
    Definition

    A coded type for the identifier that can be used to determine which identifier to use for a specific purpose.

    ShortDescription of identifier
    Comments

    This element deals only with general categories of identifiers. It SHOULD not be used for codes that correspond 1..1 with the Identifier.system. Some identifiers may fall into multiple categories due to common usage. Where the system is known, a type is unnecessary because the type is always part of the system definition. However systems often need to handle identifiers where the system is not known. There is not a 1:1 relationship between type and system, since many different systems have the same type.

    Control0..1
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from Unless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from Identifier Typehttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/identifier-type
    (required to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/IdentifierTypeVH)
    TypeCodeableConcept
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Allows users to make use of identifiers when the identifier system is not known.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    14. Practitioner.identifier.system
    Definition

    Establishes the namespace for the value - that is, a URL that describes a set values that are unique.

    ShortThe namespace for the identifier value
    Comments

    Identifier.system is always case sensitive.

    Control10..1
    BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from For codes, see Practitioner Identifiers
    (extensible to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/PractitionerIdentifiers)
    Typeuri
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    There are many sets of identifiers. To perform matching of two identifiers, we need to know what set we're dealing with. The system identifies a particular set of unique identifiers.

    Example<br/><b>General</b>:http://www.acme.com/identifiers/patient
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    16. Practitioner.identifier.value
    Definition

    The portion of the identifier typically relevant to the user and which is unique within the context of the system.

    ShortThe value that is unique
    Comments

    If the value is a full URI, then the system SHALL be urn:ietf:rfc:3986. The value's primary purpose is computational mapping. As a result, it may be normalized for comparison purposes (e.g. removing non-significant whitespace, dashes, etc.) A value formatted for human display can be conveyed using the Rendered Value extension. Identifier.value is to be treated as case sensitive unless knowledge of the Identifier.system allows the processer to be confident that non-case-sensitive processing is safe.

    Control10..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summarytrue
    Example<br/><b>General</b>:123456
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    18. Practitioner.name
    Definition

    The name(s) associated with the practitioner.

    ShortThe name(s) associated with the practitioner.
    Comments

    The selection of the use property should ensure that there is a single usual name specified, and others use the nickname (alias), old, or other values as appropriate.

    In general, select the value to be used in the ResourceReference.display based on this:

    1. There is more than 1 name
    2. Use = usual
    3. Period is current to the date of the usage
    4. Use = official
    5. Other order as decided by internal business rules.
    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeHumanName
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    The name(s) that a Practitioner is known by. Where there are multiple, the name that the practitioner is usually known as should be used in the display.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    20. Practitioner.telecom
    Definition

    A contact detail for the practitioner, e.g. a telephone number or an email address.

    ShortA contact detail for the practitioner (that apply to all roles).
    Comments

    Person may have multiple ways to be contacted with different uses or applicable periods. May need to have options for contacting the person urgently and to help with identification. These typically will have home numbers, or mobile numbers that are not role specific.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeContactPoint
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Need to know how to reach a practitioner independent to any roles the practitioner may have.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    cpt-2: A system is required if a value is provided. (value.empty() or system.exists())

    Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be found here

    0. Practitioner
    Definition

    A person who is directly or indirectly involved in the provisioning of healthcare.

    ShortA person with a formal responsibility in the provisioning of healthcare or related services
    Control0..*
    Invariantsdom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources (contained.contained.empty())
    dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated (contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty())
    dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource (contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference | %resource.descendants().as(canonical) | %resource.descendants().as(uri) | %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty())
    dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management (text.`div`.exists())
    dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label (contained.meta.security.empty())
    2. Practitioner.id
    Definition

    The logical id of the resource, as used in the URL for the resource. Once assigned, this value never changes.

    ShortLogical id of this artifact
    Comments

    The only time that a resource does not have an id is when it is being submitted to the server using a create operation.

    Control0..1
    Typeid
    Summarytrue
    4. Practitioner.meta
    Definition

    The metadata about the resource. This is content that is maintained by the infrastructure. Changes to the content might not always be associated with version changes to the resource.

    ShortMetadata about the resource
    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeMeta
    Summarytrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    6. Practitioner.implicitRules
    Definition

    A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc.

    ShortA set of rules under which this content was created
    Comments

    Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    Typeuri
    Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because the implicit rules may provide additional knowledge about the resource that modifies it's meaning or interpretation
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summarytrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    8. Practitioner.language
    Definition

    The base language in which the resource is written.

    ShortLanguage of the resource content
    Comments

    Language is provided to support indexing and accessibility (typically, services such as text to speech use the language tag). The html language tag in the narrative applies to the narrative. The language tag on the resource may be used to specify the language of other presentations generated from the data in the resource. Not all the content has to be in the base language. The Resource.language should not be assumed to apply to the narrative automatically. If a language is specified, it should it also be specified on the div element in the html (see rules in HTML5 for information about the relationship between xml:lang and the html lang attribute).

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    BindingThe codes SHOULD be taken from CommonLanguages
    (preferred to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/languages)

    A human language.

    Additional BindingsPurpose
    AllLanguagesMax Binding
    Typecode
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    10. Practitioner.text
    Definition

    A human-readable narrative that contains a summary of the resource and can be used to represent the content of the resource to a human. The narrative need not encode all the structured data, but is required to contain sufficient detail to make it "clinically safe" for a human to just read the narrative. Resource definitions may define what content should be represented in the narrative to ensure clinical safety.

    ShortText summary of the resource, for human interpretation
    Comments

    Contained resources do not have narrative. Resources that are not contained SHOULD have a narrative. In some cases, a resource may only have text with little or no additional discrete data (as long as all minOccurs=1 elements are satisfied). This may be necessary for data from legacy systems where information is captured as a "text blob" or where text is additionally entered raw or narrated and encoded information is added later.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeNarrative
    Alternate Namesnarrative, html, xhtml, display
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    12. Practitioner.contained
    Definition

    These resources do not have an independent existence apart from the resource that contains them - they cannot be identified independently, and nor can they have their own independent transaction scope.

    ShortContained, inline Resources
    Comments

    This should never be done when the content can be identified properly, as once identification is lost, it is extremely difficult (and context dependent) to restore it again. Contained resources may have profiles and tags In their meta elements, but SHALL NOT have security labels.

    Control0..*
    TypeResource
    Alternate Namesinline resources, anonymous resources, contained resources
    14. Practitioner.extension
    Definition

    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

    ShortAdditional content defined by implementations
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension
    Standard StatusNormative (from Trial Use)
    Alternate Namesextensions, user content
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Practitioner.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
    • value @ url
    • 16. Practitioner.extension:role
      Slice Namerole
      Definition

      EMIS Practitioner Role

      ShortEMIS Practitioner Role
      Control0..1
      This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
      TypeExtension(EMIS Practitioner Role) (Complex Extension)
      Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
      ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
      18. Practitioner.modifierExtension
      Definition

      May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource and that modifies the understanding of the element that contains it and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer is allowed to define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

      Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

      ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored
      Comments

      There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

      Control0..*
      This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
      TypeExtension
      Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the resource that contains them
      Standard StatusNormative (from Trial Use)
      Requirements

      Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

      Alternate Namesextensions, user content
      Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
      ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
      SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Practitioner.modifierExtension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
      • value @ url
      • 20. Practitioner.identifier
        Definition

        An identifier that applies to this person in this role.

        ShortAn identifier that applies to this person in this role.
        NoteThis is a business identifier, not a resource identifier (see discussion)
        Control1..*
        This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
        TypeIdentifier
        Must Supporttrue
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        Often, specific identities are assigned for the agent.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        22. Practitioner.identifier.id
        Definition

        Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

        ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
        Control0..1
        Typestring
        Is Modifierfalse
        XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
        Summaryfalse
        24. Practitioner.identifier.extension
        Definition

        May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

        ShortAdditional content defined by implementations
        Comments

        There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

        Control0..*
        TypeExtension
        Is Modifierfalse
        Summaryfalse
        Alternate Namesextensions, user content
        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
        SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Practitioner.identifier.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
        • value @ url
        • 26. Practitioner.identifier.use
          Definition

          The purpose of this identifier.

          Shortusual | official | temp | secondary | old (If known)
          Comments

          Applications can assume that an identifier is permanent unless it explicitly says that it is temporary.

          Control0..1
          BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from IdentifierUse
          (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/identifier-use|4.0.1)

          Identifies the purpose for this identifier, if known .

          Typecode
          Is Modifiertrue because This is labeled as "Is Modifier" because applications should not mistake a temporary id for a permanent one.
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Allows the appropriate identifier for a particular context of use to be selected from among a set of identifiers.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          28. Practitioner.identifier.type
          Definition

          A coded type for the identifier that can be used to determine which identifier to use for a specific purpose.

          ShortDescription of identifier
          Comments

          This element deals only with general categories of identifiers. It SHOULD not be used for codes that correspond 1..1 with the Identifier.system. Some identifiers may fall into multiple categories due to common usage. Where the system is known, a type is unnecessary because the type is always part of the system definition. However systems often need to handle identifiers where the system is not known. There is not a 1:1 relationship between type and system, since many different systems have the same type.

          Control0..1
          BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from Identifier Type
          (required to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/IdentifierTypeVH)
          TypeCodeableConcept
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Allows users to make use of identifiers when the identifier system is not known.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          30. Practitioner.identifier.system
          Definition

          Establishes the namespace for the value - that is, a URL that describes a set values that are unique.

          ShortThe namespace for the identifier value
          Comments

          Identifier.system is always case sensitive.

          Control1..1
          BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from Practitioner Identifiers
          (extensible to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/PractitionerIdentifiers)
          Typeuri
          Is Modifierfalse
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          There are many sets of identifiers. To perform matching of two identifiers, we need to know what set we're dealing with. The system identifies a particular set of unique identifiers.

          Example<br/><b>General</b>:http://www.acme.com/identifiers/patient
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          32. Practitioner.identifier.value
          Definition

          The portion of the identifier typically relevant to the user and which is unique within the context of the system.

          ShortThe value that is unique
          Comments

          If the value is a full URI, then the system SHALL be urn:ietf:rfc:3986. The value's primary purpose is computational mapping. As a result, it may be normalized for comparison purposes (e.g. removing non-significant whitespace, dashes, etc.) A value formatted for human display can be conveyed using the Rendered Value extension. Identifier.value is to be treated as case sensitive unless knowledge of the Identifier.system allows the processer to be confident that non-case-sensitive processing is safe.

          Control1..1
          Typestring
          Is Modifierfalse
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Example<br/><b>General</b>:123456
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          34. Practitioner.identifier.period
          Definition

          Time period during which identifier is/was valid for use.

          ShortTime period when id is/was valid for use
          Control0..1
          TypePeriod
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summarytrue
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          36. Practitioner.identifier.assigner
          Definition

          Organization that issued/manages the identifier.

          ShortOrganization that issued id (may be just text)
          Comments

          The Identifier.assigner may omit the .reference element and only contain a .display element reflecting the name or other textual information about the assigning organization.

          Control0..1
          TypeReference(Organization)
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summarytrue
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          38. Practitioner.active
          Definition

          Whether this practitioner's record is in active use.

          ShortWhether this practitioner's record is in active use
          Comments

          If the practitioner is not in use by one organization, then it should mark the period on the PractitonerRole with an end date (even if they are active) as they may be active in another role.

          Control0..1
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          Typeboolean
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Need to be able to mark a practitioner record as not to be used because it was created in error.

          Meaning if MissingThis resource is generally assumed to be active if no value is provided for the active element
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          40. Practitioner.name
          Definition

          The name(s) associated with the practitioner.

          ShortThe name(s) associated with the practitioner.
          Comments

          The selection of the use property should ensure that there is a single usual name specified, and others use the nickname (alias), old, or other values as appropriate.

          In general, select the value to be used in the ResourceReference.display based on this:

          1. There is more than 1 name
          2. Use = usual
          3. Period is current to the date of the usage
          4. Use = official
          5. Other order as decided by internal business rules.
          Control0..*
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          TypeHumanName
          Must Supporttrue
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          The name(s) that a Practitioner is known by. Where there are multiple, the name that the practitioner is usually known as should be used in the display.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          42. Practitioner.telecom
          Definition

          A contact detail for the practitioner, e.g. a telephone number or an email address.

          ShortA contact detail for the practitioner (that apply to all roles).
          Comments

          Person may have multiple ways to be contacted with different uses or applicable periods. May need to have options for contacting the person urgently and to help with identification. These typically will have home numbers, or mobile numbers that are not role specific.

          Control0..*
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          TypeContactPoint
          Must Supporttrue
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Need to know how to reach a practitioner independent to any roles the practitioner may have.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          cpt-2: A system is required if a value is provided. (value.empty() or system.exists())
          44. Practitioner.address
          Definition

          Address(es) of the practitioner that are not role specific (typically home address). Work addresses are not typically entered in this property as they are usually role dependent.

          ShortAddress(es) of the practitioner that are not role specific (typically home address)
          Comments

          The PractitionerRole does not have an address value on it, as it is expected that the location property be used for this purpose (which has an address).

          Control0..*
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          TypeAddress
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          The home/mailing address of the practitioner is often required for employee administration purposes, and also for some rostering services where the start point (practitioners home) can be used in calculations.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          46. Practitioner.gender
          Definition

          Administrative Gender - the gender that the person is considered to have for administration and record keeping purposes.

          Shortmale | female | other | unknown
          Comments

          Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size

          Control0..1
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from AdministrativeGender
          (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/administrative-gender|4.0.1)

          The gender of a person used for administrative purposes.

          Typecode
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Needed to address the person correctly.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          48. Practitioner.birthDate
          Definition

          The date of birth for the practitioner.

          ShortThe date on which the practitioner was born
          Control0..1
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          Typedate
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Needed for identification.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          50. Practitioner.photo
          Definition

          Image of the person.

          ShortImage of the person
          Comments

          When providing a summary view (for example with Observation.value[x]) Attachment should be represented with a brief display text such as "Signed Procedure Consent".

          Control0..*
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          TypeAttachment
          Requirements

          Many EHR systems have the capability to capture an image of patients and personnel. Fits with newer social media usage too.

          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          att-1: If the Attachment has data, it SHALL have a contentType (data.empty() or contentType.exists())
          52. Practitioner.qualification
          Definition

          The official certifications, training, and licenses that authorize or otherwise pertain to the provision of care by the practitioner. For example, a medical license issued by a medical board authorizing the practitioner to practice medicine within a certian locality.

          ShortCertification, licenses, or training pertaining to the provision of care
          Control0..*
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          TypeBackboneElement
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          54. Practitioner.qualification.id
          Definition

          Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.

          ShortUnique id for inter-element referencing
          Control0..1
          Typestring
          XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
          56. Practitioner.qualification.extension
          Definition

          May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

          ShortAdditional content defined by implementations
          Comments

          There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

          Control0..*
          This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
          TypeExtension
          Standard StatusNormative (from Trial Use)
          Alternate Namesextensions, user content
          Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
          ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
          SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Practitioner.qualification.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
          • value @ url
          • 58. Practitioner.qualification.modifierExtension
            Definition

            May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

            Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

            ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized
            Comments

            There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

            Control0..*
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            TypeExtension
            Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the element that contains them
            Summarytrue
            Requirements

            Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

            Alternate Namesextensions, user content, modifiers
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
            60. Practitioner.qualification.identifier
            Definition

            An identifier that applies to this person's qualification in this role.

            ShortAn identifier for this qualification for the practitioner
            NoteThis is a business identifier, not a resource identifier (see discussion)
            Control0..*
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            TypeIdentifier
            Requirements

            Often, specific identities are assigned for the qualification.

            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            62. Practitioner.qualification.code
            Definition

            Coded representation of the qualification.

            ShortCoded representation of the qualification
            Comments

            Not all terminology uses fit this general pattern. In some cases, models should not use CodeableConcept and use Coding directly and provide their own structure for managing text, codings, translations and the relationship between elements and pre- and post-coordination.

            Control1..1
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            BindingFor example codes, see v2 table 0360, Version 2.7
            (example to http://terminology.hl7.org/ValueSet/v2-2.7-0360)

            Specific qualification the practitioner has to provide a service.

            TypeCodeableConcept
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            64. Practitioner.qualification.period
            Definition

            Period during which the qualification is valid.

            ShortPeriod during which the qualification is valid
            Comments

            A Period specifies a range of time; the context of use will specify whether the entire range applies (e.g. "the patient was an inpatient of the hospital for this time range") or one value from the range applies (e.g. "give to the patient between these two times").

            Period is not used for a duration (a measure of elapsed time). See Duration.

            Control0..1
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            TypePeriod
            Requirements

            Qualifications are often for a limited period of time, and can be revoked.

            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            per-1: If present, start SHALL have a lower value than end (start.hasValue().not() or end.hasValue().not() or (start <= end))
            66. Practitioner.qualification.issuer
            Definition

            Organization that regulates and issues the qualification.

            ShortOrganization that regulates and issues the qualification
            Comments

            References SHALL be a reference to an actual FHIR resource, and SHALL be resolveable (allowing for access control, temporary unavailability, etc.). Resolution can be either by retrieval from the URL, or, where applicable by resource type, by treating an absolute reference as a canonical URL and looking it up in a local registry/repository.

            Control0..1
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            TypeReference(Organization)
            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
            ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided (reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids')))
            68. Practitioner.communication
            Definition

            A language the practitioner can use in patient communication.

            ShortA language the practitioner can use in patient communication
            Comments

            The structure aa-BB with this exact casing is one the most widely used notations for locale. However not all systems code this but instead have it as free text. Hence CodeableConcept instead of code as the data type.

            Control0..*
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
            BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from AllLanguages
            (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/all-languages)

            A ValueSet that identifies the language used by a person.

            Additional BindingsPurpose
            AllLanguagesMax Binding
            TypeCodeableConcept
            Requirements

            Knowing which language a practitioner speaks can help in facilitating communication with patients.

            Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))