In our first module, we briefly described how terminology standards are used to facilitate semantic interoperability, preserving meaning and context. Because they are a standardized way that people use to discuss aspects of health and health care, terminologies facilitate precise and clear communication by minimizing or eliminating ambiguity.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Define terminology standards
• Describe general features of these terminologies
• Provide an overview of some of the medical terminologies that NLM develops or collaborates on