Jargon Buster
The SCATA Jargon Buster is a compilation of many of the confusing terms and acronyms used in Health Informatics. It was compiled from various sources and is maintained by the SCATA membership.
If you are are a SCATA member, you can add and edit jargon terms from the member's area
Non-members can use the contact page to submit a new term or acronym, or to update an existing one.
Term or Acronym | Definition | Explanation |
Data Controller |
| A term used in the Data Protection Act to describe anyone who controls the use of personal data. |
DDTF |
Data Dictionary Task Force | A task force set up in 2001 under the aegis of the APSF to develop a standard terminology for anaesthesia. The DDTF has been formally adopted as an official SNOMED CT extension group and has now transmogrified into IOTA. See www.apsf.org/initiatives/infosys.mspx. |
DH |
Department of Health (for the NHS in England ) | Responsibility for healthcare in Scotland and Wales is devolved to their national assemblies |
DICOM |
Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine | A communication standard for handling digital images, mostly relevant to diagnostic imaging, e.g. X Rays. |
dm+d |
Dictionary of Medicines and Devices | the new name for CPRS. A mechanism for codifying all clinical products in use in the UK . The dm+d aims to deliver a standard electronic vocabulary (terminology) and identifiers for clinical products (medicines, appliances and personal medical devices). This dictionary will facilitate electronic transfer of data on clinical products between systems and provide a route by which knowledge to assist decision making can be accessed for the relevant product. |
DSCN |
Data Set Change Notice | A formal notification from the NHSIA of changes to mandatory data sets. These has now been superceded by ISB notices. (qv) |
DTC |
Diagnostic and Treatment Centre. | See Treatment Centre |
DTC |
Diagnostic and Treatment Centre | A new initiative within the NHS in England. Treatment Centres are designed primarily to do routine, high throughput, elective surgery, e.g. hip replacements, cataracts. Commonly set up using private finance and sometimes employing teams of clinicians from overseas. |