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Health-RI launches version 2 of the Health-RI metadata schema
An important step towards better findability and accessibility of Dutch health data
After months of intensive collaboration with nodes and partners across the country, Health-RI proudly presents version 2 of the Health-RI core metadata schema. This new version makes it significantly easier for researchers, innovators, and policymakers to find and understand relevant health data via the National Health Data Catalogue.
Prepared for European developments
The biggest update in version 2 is the integration of the draft HealthDCAT-AP standard, which enables the publication of more content-rich and relevant metadata and prepares us for the upcoming European Health Data Space (EHDS). We’ve also integrated DCAT-AP NL. The good news? We’ve consciously chosen a gradual transition by adding only a few new mandatory fields, making it easy for existing implementations to upgrade.
“With this release, we’re taking an important step toward European compliance without overburdening our users,” says Hannah Neikes, lead metadata expert of Health-RI Task Group D1.
Integration with FAIR Data Point
To ensure the full schema can be used during metadata entry with the FAIR Data Point (FDP) interface, we collaborated with LUMC to update the FDP reference implementation.
Users are advised to upgrade to version 1.7.4 of the FDP server and 1.17.1 of the FDP client to make full use of all functionalities.
Catalogue improvements
We are currently working on integrating the new metadata into the user interface and search functionality of the catalogue, so end users will directly benefit from the added value.
Publishing metadata of datasets in the catalogue using the new version does not need to wait for these updates — once the catalogue is adjusted, the additional fields will automatically become visible for datasets added using version 2.
Complete documentation and support
Technical specifications
- All specifications of the new schema can be found in our GitHub repository. Here, you'll find all classes and propertiesof the new schema, and a UML diagram showing how the classes relate to one another.
- Looking for the SHACL files? You can find them here. Please use the FairDataPointSchemaTool to update the model in the FDP to the new version.
- An overview showing for each metadata field whether it is identical to v1, modified, or entirely new in v2.
Need help?
We understand that a new version can raise questions. That’s why we offer several support channels:
- Documentation: Comprehensive background information about the Health-RI metadata schema is available here. You’ll also find details on how to map your data to the schema, including a tutorial, and recommendations for working with the specific DCAT classes.
- FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
- Local support: Reach out to your FAIR data steward, FAIR coordinator, or members of Task Groups D1 and D9
- Walk-in hours: Weekly walk-in hours where you can ask specific questions. We ensure a colleague with the right expertise is available to help.
Getting started
Within the work of Task Group D9, the new schema version is now being adopted and implemented by nodes and data holders. Over the course of the year, we expect to see these results reflected in the catalogue.
Would you like to publish metadata of datasets in the National Health Data Catalogue?
Contact servicedesk@health-ri.nl
Despite extensive testing and reviews, issues may still arise. Found something?
Please create an issue in our GitHub repository, or send an email to servicedesk@health-ri.nl (see here what information to include).
Your feedback helps us continue improving the schema.