[MA 2026 02] User-friendly data capture to support the transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11 mortality coding.
To be determined (e.g. Statistics Netherlands, department of Medical Informatics Amsterdam UMC)
Proposed by: Myrthe van Heerde [m.i.vanheerde@amsterdamumc.nl]
Introduction
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is used worldwide for mortality statistics. The transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11 introduces more detailed and flexible coding possibilities, but also increases complexity. Correct application of ICD-11 mortality coding rules depends heavily on the quality and structure of the underlying data [1].
In current practice in the Netherlands, physicians and coders experience a high administrative burden and uncertainty about which information is required for correct mortality coding. Without well-designed data capture systems, the benefits of ICD-11 cannot be fully realized.
This project focuses on how mortality data can be captured in a more user-friendly and future-proof way to support the transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11. From a user-centred design perspective, this means designing data capture systems that align with the workflows, information needs, and cognitive processes of healthcare professionals. By applying user-centred design principles, the project aims to explore how interface design and information structuring can support the entry of complete and relevant information for correct mortality coding.
Description of the SRP Project/Problem
Although ICD-11 enables richer and more precise mortality coding, it only works well if the required data are systematically and correctly recorded [1]. In the current Dutch mortality registration process, information is collected via death certificates, national registries (e.g. Statistics Netherlands), and electronic health records (EHRs). However, this process is not always intuitive for users, and important information may be missing or inconsistently recorded [2].
Physicians and coders often do not know exactly which information is needed for the classification rules, leading to errors, extra work, and delays. There is a need for user-centred design of data capture systems that guide users in entering the right information at the right time.
This project will analyse which data elements are needed for correct mortality coding, how they are currently recorded, and how interface design and information models can support users more effectively.
Research questions
Main research question:
How can user-centered design principles support healthcare professionals in capturing the information needed for correct mortality classification, and thereby facilitate the transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11 MMS?
Sub-questions:
1. Which data elements are minimally required to correctly apply ICD-10 and ICD-11 MMS classification rules?
2. How are these data currently recorded in the Dutch mortality registration process?
3. Which problems do users experience in the current data capture process?
4. Which design principles and interface concepts can make data entry more intuitive and efficient?
5. How do domain experts (such as physicians and coders) evaluate the clarity and usability of the conceptual interface designs (e.g. sketches or mock-ups) for mortality data capture?
Expected results
The project is expected to deliver:
- An overview of the essential data elements required for mortality coding in ICD-10 and ICD-11.
- An analysis of the current Dutch mortality registration workflow and its bottlenecks.
- A set of user-centered design principles for mortality data capture.
- Conceptual interface designs (mock-ups or prototypes) that support correct and efficient data entry.
- Feedback from domain experts on the usability and applicability of these concepts.
These results will contribute to a smoother transition to ICD-11 and a lower administrative burden for end users.
Time period
- November – June (X)
- May – November
Contact
Name: Myrthe van Heerde
Email: m.i.vanheerde@amsterdamumc.nl
References
[1] Harrison JE, Weber S, Jakob R, Chute CG. ICD-11: an international classification of diseases for the twenty-first century. BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making. 2021 Nov;21(S6). Available at: https://bmcmedinformdecismak.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12911-021-01534-6
[2] Statistics Netherlands. Causes of death statistics. 2026 Available at: https://www.cbs.nl/en-gb/our-services/methods/surveys/brief-survey-description/causes-of-death-statistics