HL7 is simply used as a data format, like json or XML. Newer versions of HL7 are actually XML-ish in format.<p>Saying "HL7" on it's own is nowhere near a solution. What I mean is that systems/platforms need to be encouraged (incentivized) to support bidirectional data exchange in any data format or transport mechanism the market will adopt. Like, say, Twitter. An API that would create and read internal data elements on the individual platform. This would allow systems providers to maintain their proprietary advantages but expose their systems to larger integration.<p>Trust me, the current state of affairs are anti-competition, anti-innovation and down right piss poor for patient medical care.