CHAPTER A - nomesco

PREFACE
Preface to NOMESCO Classification of
Surgical Procedures Version 1.15
The Nordic Medico-Statistical Committee (NOMESCO) published the first printed edition of the NOMESCO
Classification of Surgical Procedures (NCSP) in 1996. Denmark introduced a Danish version of NSCP (NCSP-D) the same
year. In 1997, Finland and Sweden introduced national versions (NCSP-F and NCSP-S respectively), whereas Iceland
implemented the Nordic (English-language) version of NCSP (NCSP-E). In 1999, Norway adopted a Norwegian version of
NCSP (NCSP-N). Thus all five Nordic countries have used NCSP since 1999.
A procedure for annual updating of NCSP has been established. The responsibility for updating the classification lies with
the Nordic Centre for Classifications in Health Care, in Oslo, Norway. The Centre maintains an electronic discussion
group for suggested changes and a Reference group for Nordic classification matters which makes formal recommendations
as to changes in the classification. The final decisions are taken by the Board of the Nordic Centre. Information on the
NCSP update routine can be found in the section on Structure and classification guidelines. The Nordic version of NCSP
has been updated fifteen times. NCSP Version 1.15 is effective from January 1, 2011.
NOMESCO and the Nordic Centre decided to make new printed copies of the Nordic version of NCSP available to
interested parties on a print-on-demand basis. This version of NCSP 1.15 includes the original preface to the basic Nordic
edition of NCSP as well as the guidelines on the structure and use of the classification. The body of the classification
incorporates all fourteen updates made so far which have been fully integrated in the text.
The first revision consisted mainly of corrections to the original version, whereas later revisions introduce new codes which
can be seen as a development of the classification. These changes are based on suggestions from national classification
authorities and the discussion in the electronic forum. The changes introduced between the thirteenth and fourteenth
revisions are presented in Appendix 2. The changes in the earlier revisions are presented at the website of the Nordic Centre
(http://www. nordclass.org).
Questions about the maintenance and updating procedure should be directed to the Nordic Centre for Classifications in
Health Care. Requests for printed versions of NCSP should be directed to NOMESCO. The classification is also available
at the website of the Nordic Centre, from where it can be downloaded in PDF-format (http://www. nordclass.org)
Oslo and Copenhagen November 2010
Lars Berg Johannes Nielsen
Head of the Nordic Classification Centre Secretary of NOMESCO
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