About the role
Overview
Black Canyon Consulting (BCC) is searching for a FHIR API Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the User Services and Collection Division (USCD), part of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. The USCD is responsible for managing the NLM's extensive collection of biomedical literature, health information, and data resources. Its core mandate is to collect, curate, and connect the world to this information.
The National Library of Medicine (NLM) Health Data Standards (HDS) program maintains highly utilized terminology and knowledge products, including the Value Set Authority Center (VSAC). VSAC and other HDS services support billions of API queries annually and are widely integrated across industry through FHIR Implementation Guides, terminology bindings, and the VSAC FHIR API.
While FHIR API support exists today, implementers regularly request clarification on VSAC’s alignment to the latest HL7 FHIR specifications, terminology‑services best practices, and emerging industry implementation patterns.
NLM is seeking a FHIR API Subject Matter Expert (SME) to conduct a systematic assessment of the VSAC FHIR API, identify gaps relative to current standards, and provide clear, actionable recommendations.
Key skillsets needed:
- Deep expertise in HL7 FHIR (R4/R5), FHIR IGs, and terminology services
- Hands-on experience assessing and implementing FHIR APIs
- Familiarity with healthcare interoperability standards and industry adoption patterns
- Ability to translate specs into practical implementation guidance and understandable language for non-technical team members.
A report with recommendations to/for the VSAC team with findings from assessing our VSAC API against the FHIR R4 and R5 specifications, relevant FHIR Implementation Guides (CRMI, USCORE, USREALM), identified gaps, and recommended changes needed for alignment.
Monthly presentations with updates, findings, and practical implementation guidance.