About the Organisation Data Service
Find out about the Organisation Data Service (ODS), including what the service does, it's deliverables and how to get in touch with the team.
What we do
The Organisation Data Service issues and manages unique identification codes and accompanying reference data for organisations that interact with any area of the NHS.
How ODS codes are used
ODS codes are used in almost every IT system across the NHS.
Some examples include
- all NHSmail accounts require an ODS code to function
- ODS codes play a vital role in the sending and receiving of electronic referrals
- financial transactions and reporting activities rely on ODS codes for processing
Our deliverables
We're responsible for:
- developing and maintaining the data to reflect changes in health and social care
- maintaining Registration Authority hierarchies (such as smart card and access control) on Spine to control which organisations can set up smart cards
- developing and distributing the NHS Postcode Directory
- owning and maintaining the NHS Caldicott Guardian, Senior Information Risk Owner (SIRO) and Information Asset Owner registers for England and Wales
- maintaining the Safe Haven register for England
- reconfiguration services, including guidance and assistance for organisations on managing change to their codes and any dependent systems following a merger, acquisition or split
ODS data coverage
You can find out more about the geographical and organisational scope of ODS data from ODS data coverage.
Contact us
To contact us, email [email protected]
Last edited: 4 February 2025 8:05 am