All NMD data are submitted via a batch file upload process. Files may be created using NMD-certified software or without NMD-certified software (e.g. with Excel). All uploaded files are processed and added to the database overnight.



File Formats

There are four NMD file formats available:

  • NMD Version 2.0/2,1, based on BI-RADS® 4th Edition (2004)

  • NMD Version 3.0/3.1, based on BI-RADS® 5th Edition (2013)

File specifications for each format are attached, below. Data dictionaries are also available online for both Version 2.0/2.1 and Version 3.0/3.1. 


You are strongly encouraged to use the Version 3.0/3.1 format since, at some point, Version 2.0/2.1 will be considered obsolete and no longer accepted by the NMD. Version 3.0/3.1 is also a more robust format that captures data for ultrasound, MRI, and combination exams in addition to mammography.



Excluded Data

Certain types of mammography exams are excluded from the NMD:

  • Exams performed to monitor clip placement after core biopsy

  • Exams performed to assess for success of any interventional breast procedure

  • Exams with a BI-RADS® assessment category of 6 (known malignancy) are excluded from NMD 2.0/2.1 files. They may be included in NMD 3.0/3.1 files.

Records for the types of exams listed above are not included in NMD files generated by NMD-certified software. Records with invalid data are also excluded from the NMD. Refer to the documentation for NMD Version 2.0/2.1 and NMD Version 3.0/3.1 for data element requirements.



Patient Dictionary

When a record is added to the database, a corresponding patient record is added to the facility's Patient Dictionary. If a record already exists in the Patient Dictionary with the same Facility ID and Patient ID or Social Security Number, then the patient record is updated. When a record is updated in the NMD, the corresponding patient record is also updated. For more information about the Patient Dictionary, refer to Manage Patients.