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: RelatedPerson - Detailed Descriptions

Draft as of 2024-12-02

Definitions for the RelatedPerson resource profile.

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

0. RelatedPerson
2. RelatedPerson.relationship
4. RelatedPerson.relationship.coding
BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from PDS RelatedPerson Relationship Type
(required to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/PDSRelatedPersonRelationshipType)

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

0. RelatedPerson
Definition

Information about a person that is involved in the care for a patient, but who is not the target of healthcare, nor has a formal responsibility in the care process.

ShortA person that is related to a patient, but who is not a direct target of care
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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.extension:contactPreference
Slice NamecontactPreference
Definition

The preferred method of contact, contact times and written communication format given by a Patient or Related Person.

ShortThe preferred method of contact, contact times and written communication format given by a Patient or Related Person.
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..1
This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
TypeExtension(Extension UK Core Contact Preference) (Complex Extension)
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())
6. RelatedPerson.extension:copyCorrespondenceIndicator
Slice NamecopyCorrespondenceIndicator
Definition

Extension carrying a boolean indicator showing that a patient's contact or related person SHALL be copied in to patient correspondence.

ShortIndicates that a Patient contact or RelatedPerson must be copied in to Patient correspondence.
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..1
This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
TypeExtension(Extension UK Core Copy Correspondence Indicator) (Extension Type: boolean)
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())
ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
8. RelatedPerson.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 RelatedPerson.modifierExtension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
  • value @ url
  • 10. RelatedPerson.active
    Definition

    Whether this related person record is in active use.

    ShortWhether this related person's record is in active use.
    Comments

    This element is labeled as a modifier because it may be used to mark that the resource was created in error.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    Typeboolean
    Is Modifiertrue because This element is labelled as a modifier because it is a status element that can indicate that a record should not be treated as valid
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Need to be able to mark a related person record as not to be used, such as if 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()))
    12. RelatedPerson.patient
    Definition

    The patient this person is related to.

    ShortThe patient this person is related to.
    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.

    Control1..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeReference(Patient)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    We need to know which patient this RelatedPerson is related to.

    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')))
    14. RelatedPerson.relationship
    Definition

    The nature of the relationship between a patient and the related person.

    ShortThe nature of the relationship.
    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.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from The codes SHOULD be taken from UK Core Person Relationship Typehttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/relatedperson-relationshiptype
    (extensible to https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/ValueSet/UKCore-PersonRelationshipType)

    The nature of the relationship between a patient and the related person.

    TypeCodeableConcept
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    We need to know the relationship with the patient since it influences the interpretation of the information attributed to this person.

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

    A reference to a code defined by a terminology system.

    ShortCode defined by a terminology system
    Comments

    Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true.

    Control0..*
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from For codes, see PDS RelatedPerson Relationship Type
    (required to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/PDSRelatedPersonRelationshipType)
    TypeCoding
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems.

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

    A name associated with the person.

    ShortA name associated with the person.
    Comments

    Names may be changed, or repudiated, or people may have different names in different contexts. Names may be divided into parts of different type that have variable significance depending on context, though the division into parts does not always matter. With personal names, the different parts might or might not be imbued with some implicit meaning; various cultures associate different importance with the name parts and the degree to which systems must care about name parts around the world varies widely.

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

    Related persons need to be identified by name, but it is uncommon to need details about multiple other names for that person.

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

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

    ShortA contact detail for the person.
    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 also to help with identification.

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

    People have (primary) ways to contact them in some way such as phone, email.

    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())
    22. RelatedPerson.telecom.system
    Definition

    Telecommunications form for contact point - what communications system is required to make use of the contact.

    Shortphone | fax | email | pager | url | sms | other
    Comments

    Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1, cpt-2
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from ContactPointSystemhttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/contact-point-system|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/contact-point-system|4.0.1)

    Telecommunications form for contact point.

    Typecode
    Is Modifierfalse
    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()))
    24. RelatedPerson.telecom.system.extension:otherContactSystem
    Slice NameotherContactSystem
    Definition

    Other contact system value which extends the system element in the ContactPoint datatype.

    ShortInformation about other contact methods which could be used in addition to those listed in `ContactPoint.system`.
    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..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Extension UK Core Other Contact System) (Extension Type: CodeableConcept)
    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())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    26. RelatedPerson.telecom.use
    Definition

    Identifies the purpose for the contact point.

    Shorthome | work | temp | old | mobile - purpose of this contact point
    Comments

    Applications can assume that a contact is current unless it explicitly says that it is temporary or old.

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

    Use of contact point.

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

    Need to track the way a person uses this contact, so a user can choose which is appropriate for their purpose.

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

    Address where the related person can be contacted or visited.

    ShortAddress where the related person can be contacted or visited.
    Comments

    Note: address is intended to describe postal addresses for administrative purposes, not to describe absolute geographical coordinates. Postal addresses are often used as proxies for physical locations (also see the Location resource).

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

    Need to keep track where the related person can be contacted per postal mail or visited.

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

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

    0. RelatedPerson
    Definition

    Information about a person that is involved in the care for a patient, but who is not the target of healthcare, nor has a formal responsibility in the care process.

    ShortA person that is related to a patient, but who is not a direct target of care
    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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.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. RelatedPerson.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 RelatedPerson.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
    • value @ url
    • 16. RelatedPerson.extension:contactPreference
      Slice NamecontactPreference
      Definition

      The preferred method of contact, contact times and written communication format given by a Patient or Related Person.

      ShortThe preferred method of contact, contact times and written communication format given by a Patient or Related Person.
      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..1
      This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
      TypeExtension(Extension UK Core Contact Preference) (Complex Extension)
      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())
      18. RelatedPerson.extension:copyCorrespondenceIndicator
      Slice NamecopyCorrespondenceIndicator
      Definition

      Extension carrying a boolean indicator showing that a patient's contact or related person SHALL be copied in to patient correspondence.

      ShortIndicates that a Patient contact or RelatedPerson must be copied in to Patient correspondence.
      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..1
      This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
      TypeExtension(Extension UK Core Copy Correspondence Indicator) (Extension Type: boolean)
      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())
      20. RelatedPerson.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 RelatedPerson.modifierExtension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
      • value @ url
      • 22. RelatedPerson.identifier
        Definition

        Identifier for a person within a particular scope.

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

        People are known by a variety of ids. Some institutions maintain several, and most collect identifiers for exchange with other organizations concerning the patient. Examples are national person identifier and local identifier.

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

        Whether this related person record is in active use.

        ShortWhether this related person's record is in active use.
        Comments

        This element is labeled as a modifier because it may be used to mark that the resource was created in error.

        Control0..1
        This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
        Typeboolean
        Is Modifiertrue because This element is labelled as a modifier because it is a status element that can indicate that a record should not be treated as valid
        Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
        Must Supporttrue
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        Need to be able to mark a related person record as not to be used, such as if 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()))
        26. RelatedPerson.patient
        Definition

        The patient this person is related to.

        ShortThe patient this person is related to.
        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.

        Control1..1
        This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
        TypeReference(Patient)
        Must Supporttrue
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        We need to know which patient this RelatedPerson is related to.

        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')))
        28. RelatedPerson.relationship
        Definition

        The nature of the relationship between a patient and the related person.

        ShortThe nature of the relationship.
        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.

        Control0..*
        This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
        BindingUnless not suitable, these codes SHALL be taken from UK Core Person Relationship Type
        (extensible to https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/ValueSet/UKCore-PersonRelationshipType)

        The nature of the relationship between a patient and the related person.

        TypeCodeableConcept
        Must Supporttrue
        Summarytrue
        Requirements

        We need to know the relationship with the patient since it influences the interpretation of the information attributed to this person.

        Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
        30. RelatedPerson.relationship.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
        32. RelatedPerson.relationship.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 RelatedPerson.relationship.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
        • value @ url
        • 34. RelatedPerson.relationship.coding
          Definition

          A reference to a code defined by a terminology system.

          ShortCode defined by a terminology system
          Comments

          Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true.

          Control0..*
          BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from PDS RelatedPerson Relationship Type
          (required to https://fhir.virtually.healthcare/ValueSet/PDSRelatedPersonRelationshipType)
          TypeCoding
          Is Modifierfalse
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems.

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

          A human language representation of the concept as seen/selected/uttered by the user who entered the data and/or which represents the intended meaning of the user.

          ShortPlain text representation of the concept
          Comments

          Very often the text is the same as a displayName of one of the codings.

          Control0..1
          Typestring
          Is Modifierfalse
          Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
          Summarytrue
          Requirements

          The codes from the terminologies do not always capture the correct meaning with all the nuances of the human using them, or sometimes there is no appropriate code at all. In these cases, the text is used to capture the full meaning of the source.

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

          A name associated with the person.

          ShortA name associated with the person.
          Comments

          Names may be changed, or repudiated, or people may have different names in different contexts. Names may be divided into parts of different type that have variable significance depending on context, though the division into parts does not always matter. With personal names, the different parts might or might not be imbued with some implicit meaning; various cultures associate different importance with the name parts and the degree to which systems must care about name parts around the world varies widely.

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

          Related persons need to be identified by name, but it is uncommon to need details about multiple other names for that person.

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

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

          ShortA contact detail for the person.
          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 also to help with identification.

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

          People have (primary) ways to contact them in some way such as phone, email.

          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())
          42. RelatedPerson.telecom.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.
          44. RelatedPerson.telecom.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 RelatedPerson.telecom.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
          • value @ url
          • 46. RelatedPerson.telecom.system
            Definition

            Telecommunications form for contact point - what communications system is required to make use of the contact.

            Shortphone | fax | email | pager | url | sms | other
            Comments

            Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size

            Control0..1
            This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1, cpt-2
            BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from ContactPointSystem
            (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/contact-point-system|4.0.1)

            Telecommunications form for contact point.

            Typecode
            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()))
            48. RelatedPerson.telecom.system.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.
            50. RelatedPerson.telecom.system.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 RelatedPerson.telecom.system.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
            • value @ url
            • 52. RelatedPerson.telecom.system.extension:otherContactSystem
              Slice NameotherContactSystem
              Definition

              Other contact system value which extends the system element in the ContactPoint datatype.

              ShortInformation about other contact methods which could be used in addition to those listed in `ContactPoint.system`.
              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..1
              This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
              TypeExtension(Extension UK Core Other Contact System) (Extension Type: CodeableConcept)
              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())
              54. RelatedPerson.telecom.system.value
              Definition

              Primitive value for code

              ShortPrimitive value for code
              Control0..1
              Typecode
              XML FormatIn the XML format, this property is represented as an attribute.
              Max Length:1048576
              56. RelatedPerson.telecom.value
              Definition

              The actual contact point details, in a form that is meaningful to the designated communication system (i.e. phone number or email address).

              ShortThe actual contact point details
              Comments

              Additional text data such as phone extension numbers, or notes about use of the contact are sometimes included in the value.

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

              Need to support legacy numbers that are not in a tightly controlled format.

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

              Identifies the purpose for the contact point.

              Shorthome | work | temp | old | mobile - purpose of this contact point
              Comments

              Applications can assume that a contact is current unless it explicitly says that it is temporary or old.

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

              Use of contact point.

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

              Need to track the way a person uses this contact, so a user can choose which is appropriate for their purpose.

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

              Specifies a preferred order in which to use a set of contacts. ContactPoints with lower rank values are more preferred than those with higher rank values.

              ShortSpecify preferred order of use (1 = highest)
              Comments

              Note that rank does not necessarily follow the order in which the contacts are represented in the instance.

              Control0..1
              This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
              TypepositiveInt
              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()))
              62. RelatedPerson.telecom.period
              Definition

              Time period when the contact point was/is in use.

              ShortTime period when the contact point was/is in use
              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
              Summarytrue
              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))
              64. RelatedPerson.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 for identification of the person, in combination with (at least) name and birth date.

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

              The date on which the related person was born.

              ShortThe date on which the related person 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
              Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
              68. RelatedPerson.address
              Definition

              Address where the related person can be contacted or visited.

              ShortAddress where the related person can be contacted or visited.
              Comments

              Note: address is intended to describe postal addresses for administrative purposes, not to describe absolute geographical coordinates. Postal addresses are often used as proxies for physical locations (also see the Location resource).

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

              Need to keep track where the related person can be contacted per postal mail or visited.

              Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
              70. RelatedPerson.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 persons. 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())
              72. RelatedPerson.period
              Definition

              The period of time during which this relationship is or was active. If there are no dates defined, then the interval is unknown.

              ShortPeriod of time that this relationship is considered 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
              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))
              74. RelatedPerson.communication
              Definition

              A language which may be used to communicate with about the patient's health.

              ShortA language which may be used to communicate with about the patient's health
              Comments

              If no language is specified, this implies that the default local language is spoken. If you need to convey proficiency for multiple modes, then you need multiple RelatedPerson.Communication associations. If the RelatedPerson does not speak the default local language, then the Interpreter Required Standard can be used to explicitly declare that an interpreter is required.

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

              If a related person does not speak the local language, interpreters may be required, so languages spoken and proficiency is an important things to keep track of both for patient and other persons of interest.

              Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
              76. RelatedPerson.communication.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.
              78. RelatedPerson.communication.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 RelatedPerson.communication.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
              • value @ url
              • 80. RelatedPerson.communication.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())
                82. RelatedPerson.communication.language
                Definition

                The ISO-639-1 alpha 2 code in lower case for the language, optionally followed by a hyphen and the ISO-3166-1 alpha 2 code for the region in upper case; e.g. "en" for English, or "en-US" for American English versus "en-EN" for England English.

                ShortThe language which can be used to communicate with the patient about his or her health
                Comments

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

                Control1..1
                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 language which may be used to communicate with the related person about the patient's health.

                Additional BindingsPurpose
                AllLanguagesMax Binding
                TypeCodeableConcept
                Requirements

                Most systems in multilingual countries will want to convey language. Not all systems actually need the regional dialect.

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

                Indicates whether or not the patient prefers this language (over other languages he masters up a certain level).

                ShortLanguage preference indicator
                Comments

                This language is specifically identified for communicating healthcare information.

                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
                Requirements

                People that master multiple languages up to certain level may prefer one or more, i.e. feel more confident in communicating in a particular language making other languages sort of a fall back method.

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