DAPB4121 Canonical Data Model (CDM)
A single, central, consistent approach for structuring NHS data.
The Canonical Data Model (CDM) aims to standardise data structures across NHS England, facilitating data integration and interoperability.
It is being developed incrementally and based on real-world use cases, and will be refined and approved through specific domains and topics. This model has been shaped by input from expert reference groups and subject matter experts and is designed to enhance the flow of data from source systems, leading to improved operational and analytical insights.
About the CDM
The model incorporates several key features and design principles to achieve its aims, ensuring data is robust, interoperable, and consistently understood:
- domain based development
- subject of care centric
- controlled vocabularies
- metadata and CDM dictionary
- technology agnostic
- normalised structure
- consolidates data standards
- alignment with key standards
- linked to NHS master and reference data
Publication information
Approval was given for the CDM's development to ensure a consistent, organisation-wide format.
| Scope | All organisations that provide NHS or adult social care services are covered by the standard |
|---|---|
|
Type |
Standard |
| Approved by | Data Assurance Board |
| Date of approval | 3 June 2025 |
| Release name | Amd 17/2025 |
| Release title | Version 1.0 |
| Stage | Draft |
Last edited: 4 August 2025 11:19 am