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.