1.1 This specification covers the use of digital signatures to provide authentication of healthcare information, as described in Guide E 1762. It describes how the components of a digital signature system meet the requirements specified in Guide E 1762. This includes specification of allowable signature and hash algorithms, management of public and private keys, and specific formats for keys, certificates, and signed healthcare documents.

1.2 This specification should be read in conjunction with Guide E 1762, which describes the scope of, and requirements for, authentication of healthcare information. This specification describes one implementation (digital signatures) that meets all of the requirements of Guide E 1762. It does not prescribe any particular policy regarding which documents shall be authenticated, and by whom.