The "REAL" (or "R") data type is often used to categorize numeric values in the X12 guides. This data type is easy to discuss at the conceptual/standards level, but it is a nightmare to implement in reality.

For example, R(15) means simply that the value is numeric and up to 15 characters in length. A decimal can appear anywhere or not at all. In order to support this type, a developer has to allow for every possibility from a 15-character number (no decimal) or 1 digit with 13 more after a decimal point. Most database management systems (DBMS) and development environments do not support a "REAL" data type natively.

This situation is most prominent in relation to the HIPAA-mandated X12N implementation guides. Covered entities cannot make "reasonable assumptions" about what will be in those fields. By law, they have to support whatever the guides allow.

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