title: Coupling vocabularies and data structures: lessons from LOINC.
abstract: Using LOINC's data model for laboratory test result names as a starting point, an extended model is presented, coupled to a more complete vocabulary model. Justifications for this approach are obtained from a matching experiment that attempts to identify SNOMED terms that correspond to the various components of the LOINC names. Some limitations of LOINC's current vocabulary model, exposed during the matching process, are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medical Informatics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, USA.
authors.forename: R A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Rocha
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Huff
mesh_terms: D002965:Classification; D002984:Clinical Laboratory Information Systems; D016208:Databases, Factual; D018511:Systems Integration; D018875:Vocabulary, Controlled