Birth site code recording in MSDS

We have produced some guidance on recording birth site code data in the Maternity Services Dataset (MSDS).

Aim

Site code level data will enable more granular analysis via the Maternity Services Dataset (MSDS), including the de-duplication of birth records. It will also assist MBRRACE-UK in producing more effective peer comparison groups that take into account different levels of care for babies.

Once birth site code is successfully recorded in all MSDS data submissions, our published figures can take account of where the same baby is recorded in MSDS by both the birthing trust and another trust (or trusts) which provided supplementary care or took over care following a transfer.

At the current time, due to data completeness and quality issues, birth site code can't be used to separate these. Therefore, published figures will include some duplicate reporting where such births are counted under both the birthing trust and other involved trust(s). This duplication is likely to disproportionately affect figures for babies most likely to have complicated health needs necessitating referral to specialist care, such as preterm babies.

Providers should submit active, accurate Organisation Data Service (ODS) site codes within the Organisation Site Identifier (Of Actual Place of Delivery) data item in the MSD401 Baby's Demographics and Birth Details table. Codes used will need updating where a site remains active but is transferred to a new trust or its parent trust goes through a merger, both of which can result in the old site code being superseded.

A data quality metric for birth site code recording is included on the "Other DQ Priorities" page of the CNST (Clinical Negligence Scheme for Trusts) Scorecard, and is refreshed monthly. To note: this metric is not currently assessed as part of the CNST Maternity Incentive Scheme.

Data recording

What to record in the ORGANISATION SITE IDENTIFIER (OF ACTUAL PLACE OF DELIVERY) field in the MSD401 Baby's Demographics and Birth Details table:

The data to be recorded should be either:

A 5-digit alphanumeric ODS code for a valid site that was open and active on the birth date
One of the valid default codes for:
- Home - ZZ201
- Non-NHS organisation - ZZ888
- In transit - ZZ777

Note: There is a default code Not known (not recorded) - ZZ203. This will not be counted as a valid entry for the data quality metric as it does not provide any information about the location.

This guidance also applies for the other SiteID fields in the MSDS.

Access the MSDS v2.0 Technical Output Specification for further information on the data items and tables submitted for MSDS.

Further Guidance

How can I check if my maternity unit has an Organisation Data Service (ODS) site code?

Organisation Data Service (ODS) site codes can be found via the ODS portal.

The search results will state the type of location and whether it is an open or closed organisation or site.

Your site code list may need updating when a site remains active but is transferred to a new trust or its parent trust goes through a merger, both of which can result in the old site code being superseded by a new one under the latest parent trust.

If you are not able to find what you need using the ODS Portal, contact [email protected]

What should my trust do if a maternity unit does not have an Organisation Data Service (ODS) site code?

Trusts should first check whether the site in question has a Unique Property Reference Number (UPRN). A UPRN is a unique, alpha-numeric identifier for every addressable location in Great Britain, and are typically allocated by local authorities. Whether a UPRN exists for a site can be checked at https://www.findmyaddress.co.uk/search.
If the site in question does not already have a UPRN, the trust should discuss this with the relevant local authority. The Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) Custodian at the local authority is responsible for creating and maintaining streets and addresses.
For a site that does have a UPRN, the trust can then apply for an ODS site code by completing and submitting the Site request form. This form must be submitted by the trust’s nominated Organisation Contact (OC1).

Last edited: 20 June 2025 4:01 pm