The role of compositionality in standardized problem list generation
Elkin, P.L.; Tuttle, M.; Keck, K.; Campbell, K.; Atkin, G.; Chute, C.G.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics 52 Pt 1: 660-664
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0926-9630 PMID: 10384537 Document Number: 491686
Compositionality is the ability of a Vocabulary System to record non-atomic strings. In this manuscript we define the types of composition, which can occur. We will then propose methods for both server based and client-based composition. We will differentiate the terms Pre-Coordination, Post-Coordination, and User-Directed Coordination. A simple grammar for the recording of terms with concept level identification will be presented, with examples from the Unified Medical Language System's (UMLS) Metathesaurus. We present an implementation of a Window's NT based client application and a remote Internet Based Vocabulary Server, which makes use of this method of compositionality. Finally we will suggest a research agenda which we believe is necessary to move forward toward a more complete understanding of compositionality. This work has the promise of paving the way toward a robust and complete Problem List Entry Tool.