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 two NMD file formats available:

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

  • NMD Version 3.0, 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 and Version 3.0.


You are strongly encouraged to use the Version 3.0 format since, at some point, Version 2.0 will be considered obsolete and no longer accepted by the NMD. Version 3.0 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 files. They may be included in NMD 3.0 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 and NMD Version 3.0 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.