Final answer:
The Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set (UHDDS) is comprised of 17 data elements, which are critical for uniform hospital reporting in the U.S.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set (UHDDS) consists of 17 data elements. This set of data elements is utilized extensively in the United States for hospital reporting and has been designated for uniform reporting by health care institutions.
Each element within the UHDDS has been selected to provide essential information related to inpatient stays and discharges, which supports various aspects of the healthcare system, including policy formulation, healthcare research, and funding decisions.