The GKS Variation Representation Specification (VRS) has evolved significantly since its first release. In parallel, the HL7 FHIR standard for genomic data has undergone extensive revision. To improve interoperability between these standards, the newest version of FHIR resources borrowed extensively from VRS data structures. Test implementations are being developed to demonstrate structural transformations that permit the expression of genomic variation data in either schema. Ongoing and future work is needed to continue alignment between the specifications and improve interoperability among research systems that implement GKS standards, including public knowledge-bases such as ClinVar and CIViC, and clinical systems that support FHIR APIs.

This session will review areas of close alignment between the two specifications and highlight areas where further work is needed to improve mappings so that data can flow more seamlessly. The results of these discussions may inform future road-mapping, encourage cross-pollination among the two organisations, and ultimately lower barriers for implementers.

This session is for people who are deeply familiar with GKS VRS and/or clinical genomic testing, and who want to understand the current and potential future state of harmonisation between VRS and FHIR.