Requesting MCBS Data - New Use Request
Data Request Documentation
To begin the data request process, e-mail a draft version of all documents in the original format (.xls, .pdf, .doc) to resdac@umn.edu for review. ResDAC requires 5-7 business days to review.
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The Written Request Letter, submitted on organizational letterhead, outlines the primary purpose(s) for which the data are required. The Written Request should contain the following elements:
- The purpose for which the data are needed
- A brief description of the methodology in which the data will be used
- Delineation of the data requirements, including requested modules and years
- Overnight shipping address and account information (If not specified, the data CDs are shipped at book rate through the U.S. Post Office and will take approximately 4 to 6 weeks for shipping.)
- Contact information that includes a phone number and email address
- Check made payable to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS is required to obtain compensation for its costs incurred in the processing of data, and the costs for MCBS data are a set fee of $600 per module per year.
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The Research application project description is a 3-4 page document that delineates the project purpose, methods, implementation, key personnel, and data management safeguards. To qualify for the MCBS LDS, data requestors must show CMS that their proposed use of the data meets the disclosure provisions for research purposes as defined in both the Privacy Rule and the Privacy Act. The research purpose must relate to projects that could ultimately improve the care provided to Medicare patients and policies that govern the care. This includes projects related to improving the quality of life for Medicare beneficiaries or improving the administration of the Medicare program, which includes payment related projects or analytical reports.
- LDS Data Use Agreement (DUA)
The DUA delineates the confidentiality requirements of the Privacy Act and CMS's data release policies and procedures. This agreement specifies that the requestor will:
- Ensure the data will be used only for the specific purpose stated in the agreement
- Develop and implement the appropriate procedural, technical, and physical safeguards to prevent unauthorized use
- Not release any files without prior CMS approval
- Return or destroy file(s) by the date specified
- Not publish or release information that would permit the identification of a beneficiary
Signature Addendum: If anyone besides the requester or custodian is going to handle CMS data, a signature addendum may be required.
Last Modified October 15, 2009