Principles

When creating a new reference set it is important that the reference set metadata concept (which identifies and names the reference set) and the associated reference set members belongs to a module of the reference set producer. I.e. if a reference set is created as part of an extension, the reference set metadata concept should belong to a module within the namespace of the extension producer. 

All reference sets follow a logical model. Each reference set type is represented by a specific data structure which enables a specific functionality. SNOMED International specifies a set of reference set types, which can be used to support a set of terminology management  purposes. SNOMED CT Members (National Release Centers) and Affiliates may also create reference sets to assist with localization and effective implementation of SNOMED CT. In general, an extension producer can create a reference set within their extension, but the reference set type should be defined in either

• • The producers extension
  • The International Edition
  • Other extensions (which the producers extension modules are dependent on)

For more information about the different reference set types and their data structures, please refer to the reference set release file specification.

Please note that for all reference sets, there should be guidance on what is possible and what is not possible. For some International reference sets, it is acceptable and even required to add extension rows to the International reference set. For example, the Module Dependency Refset, the MRCM Module Scope Refset, and Language Refset. This is not necessarily applicable to all reference sets. Over time, further guidance in this area will be developed.

Process

The table below provides a summary of the process to follow when creating a new reference set. 

For additional information, see the practical guide to reference sets:  13.1 How to create a new Reference Set using an existing pattern