This study examines eight UMLS controlled vocabularies and reviews them to determine how they may be used to support communication within the EHR. This study is important because no controlled vocabulary fully meets the needs of healthcare (Abdelhak, et al, 2001). Content analysis reveals that items generally included in the EHR are observations, laboratory tests, diagnostic imaging reports, treatments, therapies, drugs, patient information, legal permissions, and allergies. A descriptive profile of each vocabulary is included.
