Introducing FHIR Connect: A Global Health Interoperability Solution

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This article introduces 'FHIR Connect,' a new service developed by Better. The platform aims to integrate FHIR resource applications with openEHR clinical data storage using an open, standards-based approach. Previously, linking these two standards was complex, often requiring custom development or proprietary engines for mapping, and faced challenges regarding bidirectionality and reusability. FHIR Connect solves this through a core concept called 'Dual Mapping.' This method establishes a set of core reusable mappings between openEHR archetypes and FHIR resources, while allowing an additional context mapping layer for specific use cases. This enables seamless data handling in both directions (FHIR to openEHR, or vice versa), moving beyond simple one-way data transformation. Furthermore, the system provides a platform utilizing low-code tools, enabling citizen developers—even those without deep technical expertise—to easily build and reuse mapping definitions. This promotes the formation of an open, community-driven ecosystem. FHIR Connect is designed to support various architectural patterns, such as message brokers or synchronous agents. The service aims to connect two complementary standards: FHIR, which has established itself as the standard for health information exchange, and openEHR, known for its strength in building patient-centric systems. It seeks to realize an open and interoperable ecosystem by bridging these gaps.