Which standard is primarily used for exchanging health information between computer systems?

• A. HL7
• B. CPT
• C. ICD
• D. DICOM

Answer: (A)

Interoperability hinges on a standard that defines how data are packaged and transmitted between computer systems. HL7 provides that messaging framework, outlining the structures and data elements so different systems—EHRs, labs, billing, and pharmacy—can exchange clinical and administrative information consistently. This enables things like orders, results, and patient demographics to be understood across platforms, supporting seamless care coordination. The other options are not interchange formats: CPT codes describe procedures for billing, ICD codes classify diseases, and DICOM focuses on imaging data and its metadata. Therefore, HL7 is the primary standard for exchanging health information between systems.