Diagnostic Imaging Data Set v2.0 Public Consultation: Supplementary Questions

Overview

Diagnostic Imaging Data Set

The Diagnostic Imaging Data Set (DIDS) is a central collection of detailed information about diagnostic (and other) imaging tests carried out on NHS patients, to be extracted and submitted monthly.

The data set captures information about referral source and patient type, details of the test (imaging code which can be mapped to useful information such as type of test and body site post collection), demographic information such as GP registered practice, patient postcode, ethnicity, gender and date of birth, plus key dates for events in the imaging process to allow derivation of information about waiting times for each diagnostic imaging event, from time of test request through to time of reporting.

By collecting data submitted to DIDS, we are able to:

• provide accurate details on the specific imaging tests performed and the demographics of the patients at a national and sub-national level
• enable analysis of demographic and geographic variation in access to different test types and different providers
• assess effective delivery of care
• provide information on the utilisation of high value imaging equipment
• monitor trends in care and towards improving outcomes
• provide information to improve diagnostic services
• link to other data sets, most notably cancer registration data

The current DIDS (version 1.0) has been reporting activity since April 2012.  The changes planned for DIDS version 2.0 (v2.0) are intended to enable the data set to meet a number of new user requirements that have emerged relating to diagnostic imaging data since this time, particularly relating to understanding and supporting services more effectively in order to improve outcomes of care.

Introduction

A consultation on the changes planned for DIDS v2.0 took place from 25 November 2024 to 7 January 2025.

Why your views matter

Following the consultation mentioned above, the responses received were reviewed and considered as part of refining the proposed changes.

As part of the application to obtain approval from the Data Alliance Partnership Board (DAPB), we are asking for additional feedback on our proposals for DIDS v2.0 in two areas relating to the submission of data.  This will help inform the requirements for the submission system.

Extensive engagement has already taken place.  However, we would now like any interested parties to participate and provide feedback with regards to the technical solutions, before DIDS v2.0 is finalised.

Consultation feedback will be reported back to the DAPB before publication of an Information Standards Notice (ISN) is agreed.

This consultation runs until 30 June 2025.

An updated draft Technical Output Specification (TOS) following feedback in the previous consultation, is included in Related documents below.   This includes data item definitions and information such as whether data items are Mandatory, Required, Optional or Pilot.  Respondents are advised to read the TOS as part of considering their response to these supplementary questions.