The integration between state repositories and CARES involves a structured process that utilizes several technical components to ensure secure and standardized data exchange. Data flows from the state repository vendor to CARES using a standardized NEMSIS 3 web service.
NEMSIS 3 Web Service
At the core of this integration is the NEMSIS (National Emergency Medical Services Information System) 3 web service. This standardized framework enables the systematic collection and exchange of EMS data across different systems.
- The NEMSIS 3 standard defines both the data elements and the structure for EMS data exchange
- It provides a common language for EMS systems across different jurisdictions
- The web service implementation allows for automated, system-to-system communication
SOAP Protocol
The communication between state repositories and CARES uses SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) as the messaging protocol.
- SOAP provides a standardized XML-based messaging framework for web services
- It allows for platform-independent communication between systems
- SOAP messages contain both header information (metadata) and body content (the actual data)
- The protocol includes built-in error handling mechanisms
Authentication and Security
Secure access to the web service requires proper credentials and security measures.
- Each state repository is issued unique credentials (username/password or API keys)
- Communications are encrypted using TLS/SSL to protect data in transit
- IP whitelisting may be implemented to further restrict access
- Audit logging tracks all data access and transfers
Schematron Validation
Schematron is used to validate the data being transferred, ensuring it meets required standards.