Strategy, objectives and results

The development of a global language for health – uniting health systems from around the world and enabling them to communicate with and understand one another – is an international endeavor.

SNOMED International was founded on that principle. In 2007, IHTSDO was established to build and strengthen SNOMED CT, other health terminologies and related terminology products, and to develop, maintain, promote and enable the uptake and correct use of its terminology products in health systems, services and products around the world. We are a strong and proud collaborative membership organization, serving and responding to the needs of the healthcare sector.

In 2017 we adopted the trading name of SNOMED International, to reflect our evolution to a product and service-oriented organization. We work with our Members and other stakeholders to prioritize the strategic development of SNOMED CT to meet the needs of the healthcare sector.

Mission

SNOMED International sustainably produces a global clinical vocabulary and other services that enables the clear exchange and analysis of health information for all.

Vision

By 2025, Clinical Terminologies will be used globally, which will result in better health and improved patient outcomes, supported by one language of health.

Strategic direction

Over the course of a year-long consultation process, SNOMED International and its associated Community of Practice have set out the organization’s 2020-2025 Strategy. Arriving at this strategy has been an active and collaborative process among participants representing the organization, General Assembly, and Management Board governance bodies.

Building on a strong foundation made possible through the success of the 2015-2020 strategy, the organization can begin to develop a model to link with other terminologies and classifications, providing a more informed view of the patient’s record.

Access the strategy

Annual work plans

Our activities include the delivery of regular services (e.g., the biannual SNOMED CT release) and projects that address specific needs of Members, Affiliates and end-users. Projects are set out in annual work plans developed by the management team, based on input from Members and other stakeholders. The Work Plan is subject to the approval of the General Assembly.