Question: OIDs for v2 tables

Apr 1, 2012

Is there an oid for HL7V2 Tables, ideally with an extension matching the table number for each V2 table? (We have created a local one, but wonder if there is an official one.) Yes, there is. The HL7 OID space .12 is reserved for HL7 v2 tables. The node after that is the leaf, and is the table number. In other words, HL7 v2 table 0072 has the OID 2.16.840.1.113883.12.78.

Note that this OID can be used to identify HL7 v2 codes in v3 CD (and related) data types, as can be seen in “Representation of Common Australian Identifiers in v2 and CDA”. The OID doesn’t actually identify the implicit value set associated with the table. (Last I heard, the vocab committee was still deliberating on the subject of that OID).

You should replace your local one.

On the same subject can you please tell us where to go to find official oids?

The only place (which makes it the least worst option) is the HL7 OID registry. Actually finding OIDs in it is an art. And then knowing whether they’re official - that’s arcane. (but check the status - if the status is not complete, treat the OID with suspicion).

Note that none of the .12 branch is actually registered in the HL7 OID registry. I just happened to be in committee at the right time to know this one.