To record preferred contact method, MODS uses the FHIR value set - contact point use + carer Enumerations Home A communication contact point at a home; attempted contacts for business purposes might intrude privacy and chances are one will contact family or other household members instead of the person one wishes to call. Typically used with urgent cases, or if no other contacts are available. Work An office contact point. First choice for business related contacts during business hours. Temp A temporary contact point. The period can provide more detailed information. Old This contact point is no longer in use (or was never correct, but retained for records). Mobile A telecommunication device that moves and stays with its owner. May have characteristics of all other use codes, suitable for urgent matters, not the first choice for routine business. Carer A communication contact point for a carer UK Facsimile Number A FAX number PagerPager SMSSMS

The FHIR value set doesn't allow for preferences to be captured - it is a list of number types rather than a record of an individual's preference. The value set also appears to be intended for business to business communication, e.g. use of a work number is preferable to home and mobile numbers.