Detailed geographic and genetic data and linkages to Medicare and Medicaid datasets are available via remotely accessible enclaves. Access to restricted data is limited to qualified researchers with approved projects who work within secure data environments. There is no cost associated with data access at this time.
NHATS/NSOC have three different restricted data applications for two different enclaves: (1) NHATS Restricted Data (geographic, Covid-19 or ApoE data), (2) NHATS-CMS Linked Files (Medicare and Medicaid claims and assessment files), and (3) NHATS Restricted Genetic Data.
Restricted Data Vetting Guidelines
Read the latest NHATS Restricted Data Vetting Guidelines before applying for any restricted data or if you have questions about vetting requirements.
Note that NHATS/NSOC does not allow different types of restricted data (geographic, Medicare claims, and genetic) to be combined. For more information about what data your project might need, visit the Project Needs and Application Types page.
NHATS Restricted Data (MiCDA enclave)
Initial Application Instructions
Files available to approved users via the MiCDA NHATS Restricted Data Repository include:
- NHATS Geographic Files
- NSOC Geographic Files
- NHATS SP-NHATS OP Distance Files
- NHATS SP-NSOC CG Distance Files
- NHATS Restricted Tracker Files
- NHATS 1940 Census Files
- NHATS 1940 Census Geographic Files
- NHATS COVID-19 Geographic File
- NHATS SP-NHATS COVID FF Distance File
- NHATS COVID-19 Restricted File
- NHATS Restricted ApoE Files
Before filling out any application forms, carefully read the instructions.
NHATS Restricted Data Application Instructions and Guide
Required Forms and Documents for an Initial Application
- Checklist
- Investigator Form
- CV or Biosketch for Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator(s)
- Project Abstract
- Research Plan
- IRB Approval at Full or Expedited Level
- File Request Form
- Signed Copy of the Data Use Agreement
- List of Enclave Users, and for each user:
- Data Security Plans for each computer and location
- ISR Pledge
- MiCDA Acceptable Use Policy
- NHATS Acceptable Use Policy
Forms that May Be Required for an Initial Application
Please read the application instructions to clarify which forms are required for your application.
Memo to IRBs
IRB/Human Subjects approval at the Investigator’s institution should use standards for live human subjects. IRB approval must be at either the Full or Expedited level; access to any restricted NHATS data does not qualify as exempt secondary analysis.
A memo explaining the type of human subjects review that is being requested by NHATS and the reasons for it is provided if needed.
Approved Project Amendment Instructions and Forms
NHATS-CMS Linked Files (LINKAGE enclave)
Initial Application Instructions
NHATS has four cohorts: 2011, 2015, 2022, and 2023. All NHATS participants in the 2011 and 2015 cohorts are included in all linked CMS files, although years of data vary due to factors such as length of enrollment in the Medicare program or death. Linkage of new NHATS participants added in 2022/2023 to their CMS records is forthcoming. The application instructions contain information on the specific linked CMS files that are available to approved researchers.
NHATS files that are available to be linked with CMS files include: NHATS Public Files, NHATS Sensitive Files, and NSOC.
Before filling out any forms, carefully read the instructions.
NHATS-CMS Linked Data Application Instructions and Guide
Required Forms and Documents for an Initial Application
- Checklist
- Investigator Form
- CV or Biosketch for Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator(s)
- Project Abstract
- Research Plan
- IRB Approval at Full or Expedited Level
- File Request Form
- Signed Copy of the Data Use Agreement
- List of Enclave Users, and for each user:
- Data Security Plans for each computer and location
- NHATS Acceptable Use Policy
Forms that May Be Required for an Initial Application
Please read the application instructions to clarify which forms are required for your application.
Memo to IRBs
IRB/Human Subjects approval at the Investigator’s institution should use standards for live human subjects. IRB approval must be at either the Full or Expedited level; access to any restricted NHATS data does not qualify as exempt secondary analysis.
A memo explaining the type of human subjects review that is being requested by NHATS and the reasons for it is provided if needed.
Approved Project Amendment Instructions and Forms
NHATS Restricted Genetic Data (MiCDA enclave)
Initial Application Instructions & Forms
Please email [email protected] for the most up-to-date application forms and instructions.