scope:

This International Standard specifies a general structure for the identification of coding schemes for data elements (types) for the purpose of information interchange using international coding scheme identifiers (ICSIs). Any code value resulting from the application of such a coding scheme can thus be given an unambiguous meaning by association with the ICSI value. It does not specify the mechanisms for the association of ICSI value and code value and is therefore independent of syntax used in inter- change. It should have wide applicability among users of data elements.