What is RESTful API?

RESTful API Definition

RESTful APIs are the "Web-Native" version of connectivity. For Payer and Health System IT leaders, REST (Representational State Transfer) is the architecture used by FHIR. It relies on standard "actions" like GET (read data), POST (create data), and PUT (update data). Operationally, RESTful APIs are preferred because they are "stateless," meaning each request contains all the info needed to process it, making them highly efficient for mobile apps and cloud services. Strategically, moving to RESTful architecture allows healthcare organizations to hire from the broader pool of tech talent, as these standards are used by almost every major technology company in the world.

FAQs

What is a "JSON" file in a REST API?

JSON is the lightweight text format used by REST APIs to package data; it is easy for machines to parse and for humans to read.

Is REST more secure than older methods?

Not inherently, but it is designed to work seamlessly with modern security standards like HTTPS and OpenID Connect for robust data protection.

Why does FHIR use REST?

To move healthcare away from "monolithic" documents toward a "resource-based" model where you can query for a specific doctor's office hours without downloading their entire file.