Version: 1.0.0 | Published: 15 Mar 2026 | Updated: 25 days ago
Summary
Type:
Information standards
Topics:
- Care
- Health
- Reference data
Contact Point
Contact Point:
Documentation
Description:
National reference files are a set of data files (in DOS format) maintained by Public Health Scotland (PHS).
They are used in:
the validation of patient-based data returns from NHS boards
health and social care operational systems across Scotland, for example, administrative, financial and human resource systems
The reference files team issue and maintain many of these codes and publish some on behalf of third parties.
Most of the files are updated on a daily basis, others are updated as required.
The listing of all NHS hospitals in Scotland as held in the PHS location reference file. This listing is updated monthly.
Documentation Link:
Is Part Of:
Name:National reference files
Review & Status
Mandated:
No
Status:
active
Origin
Name:
Data Catalogue