NHS Wales Data Dictionary Version 2.4

Summary of Approved Changes for Version 2.4

There have been many minor amendments to the Dictionary within Version 2.4. These have included the updating of existing definitions in line with Data Set Change Notices issued since Version 2.3.

Set out below are some of the major changes to the Dictionary: -

New Chapter Entitled 'Operational Guidelines'

An additional feature to the NHS Wales Data Dictionary to contain guidelines to good operational management processes with the aim of improving data quality. CCN 01/2004(W)

Waiting Times – Definitional Guidelines

A new section under 'Operational Guidelines' to provide a list of definitional terms relating to the management of new waiting times innovations (much of which follows the Guide to Good Practice and the Second Offer Scheme).

CCN 02/2004(W)

Ambulance Definitions:

Ambulance Definitions have been updated in line with the 'new' KA34 return. DSCN 06/02 (W)

Local Health Boards:

Following the abolishment of Health Authorities in Wales and the introduction of Local Health Boards the Data Dictionary has been updated accordingly. DSCN 16/2003 (W) & 22/2003 (W)

Health and Social Care Guide:

In December 2002, The Patient's Charter was replaced by the 'Health and Social Care Guide for Wales'. This has been included as a separate chapter.

Welsh Core Indicators and Community Nursing Indicators

In July 2003, the collection of the Welsh Core Indicators ceased. In March 2004, 8 of the Community Nursing Indicators will recommence collection. These changes are covered in DSCN 01/04(W) & 02/04(W).

Waiting Times for Specified Diagnostic and Therapy Services

This is the introduction of a monthly collection of Information on Waiting Times for Specified Diagnostic and Therapy Services. Collection is mandatory from April 2004. A new section has been added under Data Items & Terms (Grouped by Data Set) DSCN 52/03(W).

Community Child Health 2000

This is the introduction of a new dataset to populate the National Community Child Health Database (NCCHD). A new section has been added under Data Items & Terms (Grouped by Data Set). DSCN 15/04(W).

New Korner Returns Definitions

Descriptions of the following Korner Returns added: -

KC53 – DSCN 07/04(W)

KC61 – DSCN 08/04(W)

KC62 – DSCN 04/04(W)

KC63 – DSCN 05/04(W)

KC65 – DSCN 09/04(W)

New Value of 98 for Legal Status

New Value of 98 (not applicable) is to be used for non-psychiatric specialties. DSCN 11/04(W).

Clarification of the following data items: -

Postcodes – corrected definition and format corrected to approve ONS/OCS format. DSCN 10/04(W)

GP Code - Clearer explanation of the GP code to be used to indicate referrals from the MOD or the Prison service. DSCN 13/04(W)

A correction has been made to the data item 'Source of Referral: Outpatients'. The definition has reverted back to its original definition prior to this release.

Format of Dictionary:

The dictionary is now only available in the following formats:

The NHS Wales Intranet

Hypertext version (diskette)

The properties of these formats allow the user to print out the whole Dictionary or specific sections and therefore hold a paper copy if necessary.

Corrections included in Version 2.4