WHO and SNOMED International are presently exploring a joint sustainable framework to link ICD-11 and SNOMED CT.  

The World Health Organization (WHO) collaborates with various standards-developing organizations to enhance the interoperability of international health information systems. The linkage of the International Classification of Diseases 11th revision (ICD-11) with other terminologies has been a part of WHO's strategic plan since 2001.  

This collaboration aims to facilitate a seamless data conversion and linkages for users of both ICD-11 and SNOMED CT towards a robust and interoperable health data ecosystem. This will enable the usability of health information across diverse applications, improving data consistency and usability for the software industry; data brokers; clinical, statistical and epidemiological research; and reimbursement purposes.  

This collaborative effort aligns with WHO’s mandate to facilitate the connection between its core classification systems and terminologies with other terminologies, enabling more efficient health data exchange worldwide.  

“WHO envisions a world where health systems speak a common language. We are committed to fostering interoperability and advancing universal health coverage. We value collaboration with SNOMED International and other partners to support Member States in building robust digital health systems. Linking ICD-11 and SNOMED CT will enable the effective use of health data – ultimately saving lives,” said Samira Asma, Assistant Director-General for Data, Analytics and Delivery for Impact at WHO. 

SNOMED International CEO, Don Sweete, is encouraged by the developing and collaborative work that has been progressed by the WHO and SNOMED International organizations for the overall benefit of their joint users globally. "SNOMED and WHO Members alike are searching for seamless solutions that serve the digital health information management needs of policy makers, clinicians, informaticians and citizens as it relates to the use of both ICD-11 and SNOMED CT. I am encouraged by the commitment both organizations have taken to serve this need, jointly exploring the range of pragmatic and accelerated approaches available."   

For more information on this planned collaboration, please contact SNOMED International (info@snomed.org) or WHO (icd@who.int). 

Other contacts: 

WHO: mediainquiries@who.int  

SNOMED International: comms@snomed.org