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EMS Setup - Schematron Setup -Validation

Purpose Statement

The ePCR Validation feature allows administrators to configure custom Schematron files to ensure ePCR data meets specific state demographics requirements or national EMS standards. This validation process helps maintain data quality, compliance standards, and reduces errors in electronic Patient Care Reports before submission to state or national databases.

Background Information

Validation rules are critical for EMS agencies that must submit ePCR data to state registries or national databases. Schematron files contain specific validation rules that check data completeness, format, and compliance requirements. The First Due platform supports both state-specific validation requirements and national EMS standards, allowing agencies to customize their validation processes based on their reporting obligations. This feature is particularly important for agencies in states with mandatory ePCR reporting requirements.

Required Permissions

Users must have the following permissions to configure ePCR validation:

  • EMS Setup Access: Ability to access the Incident Documentation > EMS Setup section
  • Validation Configuration: Permission to create, edit, and manage Schematron validation files
  • File Upload: Ability to upload custom Schematron files to the system

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Welcome to the First Due ePCR setup process. The next section we will visit is Validation. To access this page navigate to Incident Documentation EMS Setup Schematron Setup.





     
  2. To set up a Custom Schematron file select the Add button on the landing page.





     
  3. Select whether you wish to validate against a specific State Demographics element or the National EMS standard.





     
  4. Setting the slider to the "On" position will enable the Schematron.





     
  5. Enter a description of what you have set up to validate.





     
  6. If you wish to add a file you can add it by dropping the file into the section or clicking in the box to upload from your device.





     
  7. Select Add to finish and save.


     

Best Practices

  • Test validation rules in a non-production environment before implementing to ensure they don't block legitimate ePCR submissions
  • Use descriptive names for validation rules that clearly indicate their purpose and scope
  • Keep Schematron files updated with the latest state or national requirements to maintain compliance
  • Document validation requirements internally so staff understand what data elements are being validated
  • Monitor validation results regularly to identify common data entry issues that may need additional training
  • Coordinate with state agencies to ensure your Schematron files match current reporting requirements

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: My Schematron file won't upload - what file formats are supported?
  1. A: The system typically accepts .sch (Schematron) and .xml files. Ensure your file is properly formatted and not corrupted.
Q: Can I have multiple validation rules active at the same time?
  1. A: Yes, you can configure multiple Schematron files for different validation purposes, such as one for state requirements and another for internal quality checks.
Q: What happens if an ePCR fails validation?
  1. A: Failed validation typically prevents the ePCR from being submitted and provides error messages indicating which data elements need correction.
Q: How do I know if my validation rules are working correctly?
  1. A: Test the validation by creating sample ePCRs with known data issues to verify that the Schematron catches the errors as expected.