CDC/NCHS Proposed Information Collection: Research Data Center Data Security Forms for Access to Confidential Data

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through its National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), has published a notice in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 seeking public comment on a continuing information collection program. The program involves data security forms required for researchers seeking access to restricted-use microdata held by NCHS. The purpose of the data collection is to fulfill NCHS's legal obligations around data security and confidentiality when granting access to sensitive, restricted-use datasets used for evidence-building research. Applicants must complete security forms and adhere to corresponding security protocols before being granted access to this data. NCHS operates Research Data Centers (RDCs) that provide controlled access to confidential health microdata. The security forms are a gatekeeping mechanism to ensure that only vetted individuals and organizations can access this sensitive public health data, and that appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent unauthorized disclosure. The public comment period allows individuals, researchers, organizations, and federal agencies to provide feedback on the burden, utility, and design of these data security forms. Comments will inform whether the collection is approved, modified, or discontinued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

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