Whenever the meaning of one code is being translated into another, there is always a potential change or loss of meaning due to the differences in semantic structures of the source and target code system.
If a map is being used to either map to or from data collected for clinical purposes, there is a level of risk being introduced that can have clinical impacts.
During development
When developing a map, consideration of the implementation setting that the map is being intended should occur. Where a map is intended for implementation in a clinical setting, further consideration is required; it may be the case that mapping is deemed to be not suitable.
Clinical review during the mapping process may be required to support safe clinical practice. Testing against real patient data is also recommended to evaluate the impact of mapping on data outcomes, particularly if there are concerns around clinical safety.
Prior to implementation
Before implementing a map in a clinical setting, it is important to do a risk assessment including (but not limited to):
- Identification of all patient safety risks that arise from using the map in a clinical setting
- Perform and document a risk assessment
- Implement risk mitigation measures
- Undertake and document the risk management activities for both the mapping process and for ongoing maintenance of the map
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