WHO Digital Documentation of COVID-19 Certificates (DDCC)
1.0.0 - CI Build International flag

WHO Digital Documentation of COVID-19 Certificates (DDCC), published by WHO. This guide is not an authorized publication; it is the continuous build for version 1.0.0 built by the FHIR (HL7® FHIR® Standard) CI Build. This version is based on the current content of https://github.com/WorldHealthOrganization/ddcc/tree/main and changes regularly. See the Directory of published versions

Resource Profile: DDCCQuestionnaire - Detailed Descriptions

Draft as of 2025-03-10

Definitions for the DDCCQuestionnaire resource profile.

Guidance on how to interpret the contents of this table can be found here

0. Questionnaire
Definition

Defines elements that allow conversion of a QuestionnaireResponse to a FHIR resource or Bundle of FHIR resources using the StructureMap-based extraction mechanism.


A structured set of questions intended to guide the collection of answers from end-users. Questionnaires provide detailed control over order, presentation, phraseology and grouping to allow coherent, consistent data collection.

ShortExtractable Questionnaire - StructureMapA structured set of questions
Control0..*
Is Modifierfalse
Must Supportfalse
Summaryfalse
Alternate NamesForm, CRF, Survey
Invariantsdom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources (contained.contained.empty())
dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource (contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference | %resource.descendants().as(canonical) | %resource.descendants().as(uri) | %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty())
dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated (contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty())
dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label (contained.meta.security.empty())
dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management (text.`div`.exists())
que-0: Name should be usable as an identifier for the module by machine processing applications such as code generation (name.matches('[A-Z]([A-Za-z0-9_]){0,254}'))
que-2: The link ids for groups and questions must be unique within the questionnaire (descendants().linkId.isDistinct())
que-0: Name should be usable as an identifier for the module by machine processing applications such as code generation (name.matches('[A-Z]([A-Za-z0-9_]){0,254}'))
que-2: The link ids for groups and questions must be unique within the questionnaire (descendants().linkId.isDistinct())
2. Questionnaire.implicitRules
Definition

A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc.

ShortA set of rules under which this content was created
Comments

Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc.

Control0..1
Typeuri
Is Modifiertrue because This element is labeled as a modifier because the implicit rules may provide additional knowledge about the resource that modifies it's meaning or interpretation
Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
Summarytrue
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
4. Questionnaire.extension
Definition

An Extension


May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.

ShortExtensionAdditional content defined by implementations
Comments

There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

Control10..*
TypeExtension
Is Modifierfalse
Summaryfalse
Alternate Namesextensions, user content
Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
SlicingThis element introduces a set of slices on Questionnaire.extension. The slices areUnordered and Open, and can be differentiated using the following discriminators:
  • value @ url
  • 6. Questionnaire.extension:designNote
    Slice NamedesignNote
    Definition

    Information captured by the author/maintainer of the questionnaire for development purposes, not intended to be seen by users.

    ShortDesign comments
    Comments

    Allows capture of todos, rationale for design decisions, etc. It can also be used to capture comments about the completion of the form in general. Allows commentary to be captured during the process of answering a questionnaire (if not already supported by the form design) as well as after the form is completed. Comments are not part of the "data" of the form. If a form prompts for a comment, this should be captured in an answer, not in this element. Formal assessments of the QuestionnareResponse would use Observation.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Design Note) (Extension Type: markdown)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supportfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    8. Questionnaire.extension:terminologyServer
    Slice NameterminologyServer
    Definition

    Indicates the terminology server(s) that are known to be capable of returning and potentially expanding the value set(s) associated with the whole questionnaire or a particular group or question within the questionnaire (depending on where the extension appears). If a full URL is not provided AND the requested query is a terminology operation (e.g. $lookup or $expand) the client SHOULD execute the operation against the preferredTerminologyServer rather than the local repository.

    ShortPreferred terminology server
    Comments

    This includes those referenced by answerValueSet as well as the unitValueSet extension.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Preferred terminology server) (Extension Type: url)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supportfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    10. Questionnaire.extension:performerType
    Slice NameperformerType
    Definition

    Indicates the types of resources that can record answers to a Questionnaire. Open Issue: Should this extension be moved to core?

    ShortResource that can record answers to this Questionnaire
    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Performer type) (Extension Type: code)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    12. Questionnaire.extension:assemble-expectation
    Slice Nameassemble-expectation
    Definition

    If present, indicates that this questionnaire has expectations with respect to assembly. Specifically, indicates whether this form requires assembly (i.e. it can't be used directly without invoking the $assemble operation operation on it) and/or whether it is intended for use only as a 'child' in an assembly process. The assembly processs might mean filling in item metadata based on information looked up from item.definitions and/or retrieving sub-questionnaires pointed to by sub-questionnaire extensions.

    ShortQuestionnaire is modular
    Comments

    SDC-conformant Questionnaires SHALL declare this extension if they require an assembly process prior to use. If not declared, then the Questionnaire is not necessarily safe for use as a child form and does not require assembly prior to use.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Assembly Expectations for Questionnaire) (Extension Type: code)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    14. Questionnaire.extension:targetStructureMap
    Slice NametargetStructureMap
    Definition

    StructureMaps that have QuestionnaireResponses of this Questionnaire as 'source'- i.e. that can be used to create other artifacts from QuestionnaireResponses that are valid against this Questionnaire.

    ShortMap to artifacts that can be populated from this Questionnaire
    Control1..*
    TypeExtension(Target structure map) (Extension Type: canonical(StructureMap))
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    16. Questionnaire.modifierExtension
    Definition

    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource and that modifies the understanding of the element that contains it and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer is allowed to define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

    Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

    ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the resource that contains them
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

    Alternate Namesextensions, user content
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    18. Questionnaire.url
    Definition

    An absolute URI that is used to identify this questionnaire when it is referenced in a specification, model, design or an instance; also called its canonical identifier. This SHOULD be globally unique and SHOULD be a literal address at which at which an authoritative instance of this questionnaire is (or will be) published. This URL can be the target of a canonical reference. It SHALL remain the same when the questionnaire is stored on different servers.

    ShortCanonical identifier for this questionnaire, represented as a URI (globally unique)
    Comments

    The name of the referenced questionnaire can be conveyed using the http://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/display extension.

    Control10..1
    Typeuri
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    … This is the id that will be used to link a QuestionnaireResponse to the Questionnaire the response is for.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    20. Questionnaire.version
    Definition

    The identifier that is used to identify this version of the questionnaire when it is referenced in a specification, model, design or instance. This is an arbitrary value managed by the questionnaire author and is not expected to be globally unique. For example, it might be a timestamp (e.g. yyyymmdd) if a managed version is not available. There is also no expectation that versions can be placed in a lexicographical sequence.

    ShortBusiness version of the questionnaire
    Comments

    There may be different questionnaire instances that have the same identifier but different versions. The version can be appended to the url in a reference to allow a reference to a particular business version of the questionnaire with the format [url]|[version].

    NoteThis is a business version Id, not a resource version Id (see discussion)
    Control0..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    22. Questionnaire.title
    Definition

    A short, descriptive, user-friendly title for the questionnaire.

    ShortName for this questionnaire (human friendly)
    Comments

    This name does not need to be machine-processing friendly and may contain punctuation, white-space, etc.

    Control0..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    24. Questionnaire.status
    Definition

    The status of this questionnaire. Enables tracking the life-cycle of the content.

    Shortdraft | active | retired | unknown
    Comments

    Allows filtering of questionnaires that are appropriate for use versus not.

    Control1..1
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from PublicationStatushttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/publication-status|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/publication-status|4.0.1)

    The lifecycle status of an artifact.

    Typecode
    Is Modifiertrue because This is labeled as "Is Modifier" because applications should not use a retired {{title}} without due consideration
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    26. Questionnaire.subjectType
    Definition

    The types of subjects that can be the subject of responses created for the questionnaire.

    ShortResource that can be subject of QuestionnaireResponse
    Comments

    If none are specified, then the subject is unlimited.

    Control0..*
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from ResourceTypehttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/resource-types|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/resource-types|4.0.1)

    One of the resource types defined as part of this version of FHIR.

    Typecode
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    A Questionnaire SHOULD specify the subject. However, it is optional to support legacy questionnaires.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    28. Questionnaire.item
    Definition

    A particular question, question grouping or display text that is part of the questionnaire.

    ShortQuestions and sections within the Questionnaire
    Comments

    The content of the questionnaire is constructed from an ordered, hierarchical collection of items.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-3
    TypeBackboneElement
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    que-1: Group items must have nested items, display items cannot have nested items ((type='group' implies item.empty().not()) and (type.trace('type')='display' implies item.trace('item').empty()))
    que-3: Display items cannot have a "code" asserted (type!='display' or code.empty())
    que-4: A question cannot have both answerOption and answerValueSet (answerOption.empty() or answerValueSet.empty())
    que-5: Only 'choice' and 'open-choice' items can have answerValueSet ((type ='choice' or type = 'open-choice' or type = 'decimal' or type = 'integer' or type = 'date' or type = 'dateTime' or type = 'time' or type = 'string' or type = 'quantity') or (answerValueSet.empty() and answerOption.empty()))
    que-6: Required and repeat aren't permitted for display items (type!='display' or (required.empty() and repeats.empty()))
    que-8: Initial values can't be specified for groups or display items ((type!='group' and type!='display') or initial.empty())
    que-9: Read-only can't be specified for "display" items (type!='display' or readOnly.empty())
    que-10: Maximum length can only be declared for simple question types ((type in ('boolean' | 'decimal' | 'integer' | 'string' | 'text' | 'url' | 'open-choice')) or maxLength.empty())
    que-11: If one or more answerOption is present, initial[x] must be missing (answerOption.empty() or initial.empty())
    que-12: If there are more than one enableWhen, enableBehavior must be specified (enableWhen.count() > 2 implies enableBehavior.exists())
    que-13: Can only have multiple initial values for repeating items (repeats=true or initial.count() <= 1)
    sdc-1: An item cannot have an answerExpression if answerOption or answerValueSet is already present. (extension('http://hl7.org/fhir/uv/sdc/StructureDefinition/sdc-questionnaire-answerExpression').empty().not() implies (answerOption.empty() and answerValueSet.empty()))
    que-1: Group items must have nested items, display items cannot have nested items ((type='group' implies item.empty().not()) and (type.trace('type')='display' implies item.trace('item').empty()))
    que-3: Display items cannot have a "code" asserted (type!='display' or code.empty())
    que-4: A question cannot have both answerOption and answerValueSet (answerOption.empty() or answerValueSet.empty())
    que-5: Only 'choice' and 'open-choice' items can have answerValueSet ((type ='choice' or type = 'open-choice' or type = 'decimal' or type = 'integer' or type = 'date' or type = 'dateTime' or type = 'time' or type = 'string' or type = 'quantity') or (answerValueSet.empty() and answerOption.empty()))
    que-6: Required and repeat aren't permitted for display items (type!='display' or (required.empty() and repeats.empty()))
    que-8: Initial values can't be specified for groups or display items ((type!='group' and type!='display') or initial.empty())
    que-9: Read-only can't be specified for "display" items (type!='display' or readOnly.empty())
    que-10: Maximum length can only be declared for simple question types ((type in ('boolean' | 'decimal' | 'integer' | 'string' | 'text' | 'url' | 'open-choice')) or maxLength.empty())
    que-11: If one or more answerOption is present, initial[x] must be missing (answerOption.empty() or initial.empty())
    que-12: If there are more than one enableWhen, enableBehavior must be specified (enableWhen.count() > 2 implies enableBehavior.exists())
    que-13: Can only have multiple initial values for repeating items (repeats=true or initial.count() <= 1)
    30. Questionnaire.item.extension:designNote
    Slice NamedesignNote
    Definition

    Information captured by the author/maintainer of the questionnaire for development purposes, not intended to be seen by users.

    ShortDesign comments
    Comments

    Allows capture of todos, rationale for design decisions, etc. It can also be used to capture comments about specific groups or questions within it. Allows commentary to be captured during the process of answering a questionnaire (if not already supported by the form design) as well as after the form is completed. Comments are not part of the "data" of the form. If a form prompts for a comment, this should be captured in an answer, not in this element. Formal assessments of the QuestionnareResponse would use Observation.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Design Note) (Extension Type: markdown)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supportfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    32. Questionnaire.item.extension:terminologyServer
    Slice NameterminologyServer
    Definition

    Indicates the terminology server(s) that are known to be capable of returning and potentially expanding the value set(s) associated with the whole questionnaire or a particular group or question within the questionnaire (depending on where the extension appears). If a full URL is not provided AND the requested query is a terminology operation (e.g. $lookup or $expand) the client SHOULD execute the operation against the preferredTerminologyServer rather than the local repository.

    ShortPreferred terminology server
    Comments

    This includes those referenced by answerValueSet as well as the unitValueSet extension.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: ele-1
    TypeExtension(Preferred terminology server) (Extension Type: url)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supportfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    34. Questionnaire.item.extension:unit
    Slice Nameunit
    Definition

    Provides a computable unit of measure associated with numeric questions to support subsequent computation on responses. This is for use on items of type integer and decimal, and it's purpose is to support converting the integer or decimal answer into a Quantity when extracting the data into a resource.

    ShortUnit for numeric answer
    Comments

    The human-readable unit is conveyed as a display element. This element is for computation purposes.

    Control0..1
    TypeExtension(Questionnaire Unit) (Extension Type: Coding)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    36. Questionnaire.item.extension:itemHidden
    Slice NameitemHidden
    Definition

    If true, indicates that the extended item should not be displayed to the user.

    ShortDon't display to user
    Comments

    If an item is hidden, all descendant items are hidden as well.

    Control0..1
    TypeExtension(Questionnaire Hidden) (Extension Type: boolean)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supportfalse
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    38. Questionnaire.item.extension:isSubject
    Slice NameisSubject
    Definition

    If present and true, indicates that the item establishes a different subject for the group in a response.

    ShortMarks that this item identifies a different subject
    Comments

    The item type must be "reference" and there can only be one item with this extension in each group.

    Control0..1
    TypeExtension(Is subject?) (Extension Type: boolean)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Allows the extraction process to leverage the fact that the subject for this group and descendants is distinct

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    40. Questionnaire.item.modifierExtension
    Definition

    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

    Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

    ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the element that contains them
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

    Alternate Namesextensions, user content, modifiers
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    42. Questionnaire.item.linkId
    Definition

    An identifier that is unique within the Questionnaire allowing linkage to the equivalent item in a QuestionnaireResponse resource.

    ShortUnique id for item in questionnaire
    Comments

    This ''can'' be a meaningful identifier (e.g. a LOINC code) but is not intended to have any meaning. GUIDs or sequential numbers are appropriate here.

    Control1..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    QuestionnaireResponse does not require omitted items to be included and may have some items that repeat, so linkage based on position alone is not sufficient.


    QuestionnaireResponse does not require omitted items to be included and may have some items that repeat, so linkage based on position alone is not sufficient.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    44. Questionnaire.item.prefix
    Definition

    A short label for a particular group, question or set of display text within the questionnaire used for reference by the individual completing the questionnaire.

    ShortE.g. "1(a)", "2.5.3"
    Comments

    These are generally unique within a questionnaire, though this is not guaranteed. Some questionnaires may have multiple questions with the same label with logic to control which gets exposed. Typically, these won't be used for "display" items, though such use is not prohibited. Systems SHOULD NOT generate their own prefixes if prefixes are defined for any items within a Questionnaire.

    Control0..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Separating the label from the question text allows improved rendering. Also, instructions will often refer to specific prefixes, so there's a need for the questionnaire design to have control over what labels are used.

    Alternate Nameslabel
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    46. Questionnaire.item.text
    Definition

    The name of a section, the text of a question or text content for a display item.

    ShortPrimary text for the item
    Comments

    When using this element to represent the name of a section, use group type item and also make sure to limit the text element to a short string suitable for display as a section heading. Group item instructions should be included as a display type item within the group.

    Control0..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    48. Questionnaire.item.type
    Definition

    The type of questionnaire item this is - whether text for display, a grouping of other items or a particular type of data to be captured (string, integer, coded choice, etc.).

    Shortgroup | display | boolean | decimal | integer | date | dateTime +
    Comments

    Time is handled using "string". File is handled using Attachment. (Content can be sent as a contained binary).


    Additional constraints on the type of answer can be conveyed by extensions. The value may come from the ElementDefinition referred to by .definition.

    Control1..1
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from QuestionnaireItemTypehttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/item-type|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/item-type|4.0.1)

    Distinguishes groups from questions and display text and indicates data type for questions.

    Typecode
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Defines the format in which the user is to be prompted for the answer.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    50. Questionnaire.item.enableWhen
    Definition

    A constraint indicating that this item should only be enabled (displayed/allow answers to be captured) when the specified condition is true.

    ShortOnly allow data when
    Comments

    If multiple repetitions of this extension are present, the item should be enabled when the condition for any of the repetitions is true. I.e. treat "enableWhen"s as being joined by an "or" clause. This element is a modifier because if enableWhen is present for an item, "required" is ignored unless one of the enableWhen conditions is met. When an item is disabled, all of its descendants are disabled, regardless of what their own enableWhen logic might evaluate to.

    Control0..*
    TypeBackboneElement
    Is Modifiertrue because If enableWhen is present and the condition evaluates to false, then the Questionnaire behaves as though the elements weren't actually present
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Allows questionnaires to adapt based on answers to other questions. E.g. If physical gender is specified as a male, no need to capture pregnancy history. Also allows conditional display of instructions or groups of questions.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    que-7: If the operator is 'exists', the value must be a boolean (operator = 'exists' implies (answer is Boolean))
    que-7: If the operator is 'exists', the value must be a boolean (operator = 'exists' implies (answer is Boolean))
    52. Questionnaire.item.enableWhen.modifierExtension
    Definition

    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

    Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

    ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the element that contains them
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

    Alternate Namesextensions, user content, modifiers
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    54. Questionnaire.item.enableWhen.question
    Definition

    The linkId for the question whose answer (or lack of answer) governs whether this item is enabled.

    ShortQuestion that determines whether item is enabled
    Comments

    If multiple question occurrences are present for the same question (same linkId), then this refers to the nearest question occurrence reachable by tracing first the "ancestor" axis and then the "preceding" axis and then the "following" axis.

    Control1..1
    Typestring
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    56. Questionnaire.item.enableWhen.operator
    Definition

    Specifies the criteria by which the question is enabled.

    Shortexists | = | != | > | < | >= | <=
    Control1..1
    BindingThe codes SHALL be taken from QuestionnaireItemOperatorhttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-enable-operator|4.0.1
    (required to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-enable-operator|4.0.1)

    The criteria by which a question is enabled.

    Typecode
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    58. Questionnaire.item.enableWhen.answer[x]
    Definition

    A value that the referenced question is tested using the specified operator in order for the item to be enabled.

    ShortValue for question comparison based on operator
    Control1..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-7
    BindingFor example codes, see QuestionnaireAnswerCodeshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-answers
    (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-answers)

    Allowed values to answer questions.

    TypeChoice of: boolean, decimal, integer, date, dateTime, time, string, Coding, Quantity, Reference(Resource)
    [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    60. Questionnaire.item.required
    Definition

    An indication, if true, that the item must be present in a "completed" QuestionnaireResponse. If false, the item may be skipped when answering the questionnaire.

    ShortWhether the item must be included in data results
    Comments

    Questionnaire.item.required only has meaning for elements that are conditionally enabled with enableWhen if the condition evaluates to true. If an item that contains other items is marked as required, that does not automatically make the contained elements required (though required groups must contain at least one child element). The value may come from the ElementDefinition referred to by .definition.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-6
    Typeboolean
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Meaning if MissingItems are generally assumed not to be required unless explicitly specified. Systems SHOULD always populate this value
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    62. Questionnaire.item.repeats
    Definition

    An indication, if true, that a QuestionnaireResponse for this item may include multiple answers associated with a single instance of this item (for question-type items) or multiple repetitions of the item (for group-type items)


    An indication, if true, that the item may occur multiple times in the response, collecting multiple answers for questions or multiple sets of answers for groups.

    ShortWhether the item may repeat
    Comments

    If a question is marked as repeats=true, then multiple answers can be provided for the question in the corresponding QuestionnaireResponse. When rendering the questionnaire, it is up to the rendering software whether to render the question text for each answer repetition (i.e. "repeat the question") or to simply allow entry/selection of multiple answers for the question (repeat the answers). Which is most appropriate visually may depend on the type of answer as well as whether there are nested items.

    The resulting QuestionnaireResponse will be populated the same way regardless of rendering - one 'question' item with multiple answer values.

    The value may come from the ElementDefinition referred to by .definition.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-6
    Typeboolean
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Items may be used to create set of (related) questions that can be repeated to give multiple answers to such a set.

    Meaning if MissingItems are generally assumed not to repeat unless explicitly specified. Systems SHOULD always populate this value
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    64. Questionnaire.item.readOnly
    Definition

    An indication, when true, that the value cannot be changed by a human respondent to the Questionnaire.

    ShortDon't allow human editing
    Comments

    The value of readOnly elements can be established by asserting extensions for defaultValues, linkages that support pre-population and/or extensions that support calculation based on other answers.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-9
    Typeboolean
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Allows certain information to be phrased (and rendered) as a question and an answer, while keeping users from changing it. May also be useful for preventing changes to pre-populated portions of a questionnaire, for calculated values, etc.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    66. Questionnaire.item.maxLength
    Definition

    The maximum number of characters that are permitted in the answer to be considered a "valid" QuestionnaireResponse.

    ShortNo more than this many characters
    Comments

    For base64binary, reflects the number of characters representing the encoded data, not the number of bytes of the binary data. The value may come from the ElementDefinition referred to by .definition.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-10
    Typeinteger
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    68. Questionnaire.item.answerValueSet
    Definition

    A reference to a value set containing a list of codes representing permitted answers for a "choice" or "open-choice" question.

    ShortValueset containing permitted answers
    Comments

    LOINC defines many useful value sets for questionnaire responses. See LOINC Answer Lists. The value may come from the ElementDefinition referred to by .definition.

    Control0..1
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-4, que-5
    Typecanonical(SDC ValueSet, ValueSet)
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    70. Questionnaire.item.answerOption
    Definition

    One of the permitted answers for a "choice" or "open-choice" question.

    ShortPermitted answer
    Comments

    This element can be used when the value set machinery of answerValueSet is deemed too cumbersome or when there's a need to capture possible answers that are not codes.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-4, que-5
    TypeBackboneElement
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    72. Questionnaire.item.answerOption.modifierExtension
    Definition

    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

    Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

    ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the element that contains them
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

    Alternate Namesextensions, user content, modifiers
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    74. Questionnaire.item.answerOption.value[x]
    Definition

    A potential answer that's allowed as the answer to this question.

    ShortAnswer value
    Comments

    The data type of the value must agree with the item.type.

    Control1..1
    BindingFor example codes, see QuestionnaireAnswerCodeshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-answers
    (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-answers)

    Allowed values to answer questions.

    TypeChoice of: integer, date, time, string, Coding, Reference(Resource)
    [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    76. Questionnaire.item.initial
    Definition

    One or more values that should be pre-populated in the answer when initially rendering the questionnaire for user input.

    ShortInitial value(s) when item is first rendered
    Comments

    The user is allowed to change the value and override the default (unless marked as read-only). If the user doesn't change the value, then this initial value will be persisted when the QuestionnaireResponse is initially created. Note that initial values can influence results. The data type of initial[x] must agree with the item.type, and only repeating items can have more then one initial value.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-8, que-13
    TypeBackboneElement
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    In some workflows, having defaults saves time.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    78. Questionnaire.item.initial.modifierExtension
    Definition

    May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions.

    Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).

    ShortExtensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized
    Comments

    There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.

    Control0..*
    TypeExtension
    Is Modifiertrue because Modifier extensions are expected to modify the meaning or interpretation of the element that contains them
    Summarytrue
    Requirements

    Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.

    Alternate Namesextensions, user content, modifiers
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both (extension.exists() != value.exists())
    80. Questionnaire.item.initial.value[x]
    Definition

    The actual value to for an initial answer.

    ShortActual value for initializing the question
    Comments

    The type of the initial value must be consistent with the type of the item.

    Control1..1
    BindingFor example codes, see QuestionnaireAnswerCodeshttp://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-answers
    (example to http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/questionnaire-answers)

    Allowed values to answer questions.

    TypeChoice of: boolean, decimal, integer, date, dateTime, time, string, uri, Attachment, Coding, Quantity, Reference(Resource)
    [x] NoteSeeChoice of Data Typesfor further information about how to use [x]
    Is Modifierfalse
    Primitive ValueThis primitive element may be present, or absent, or replaced by an extension
    Must Supporttrue
    Must Support TypesNo must-support rules about the choice of types/profiles
    Summaryfalse
    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))
    82. Questionnaire.item.item
    Definition

    Text, questions and other groups to be nested beneath a question or group.

    ShortNested questionnaire items
    Comments

    There is no specified limit to the depth of nesting. However, Questionnaire authors are encouraged to consider the impact on the user and user interface of overly deep nesting.

    Control0..*
    This element is affected by the following invariants: que-1
    TypeSeettp://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/Questionnaire#Questionnaire.item
    Is Modifierfalse
    Must Supporttrue
    Summaryfalse
    Requirements

    Reports can consist of complex nested groups.

    Invariantsele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children (hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count()))