Request MA APCD Data

This webpage provides step-by-step instructions for entities that would like to apply for MA APCD data.

The application process applies to both government agencies and non-government entities, with certain steps varying based on applicant type and the purpose behind the request. Where the process differs, those differences are noted below.

PLEASE NOTE:

Prior to submitting an APCD request, all applicants should determine whether they are requesting:

• Identifiable Data, or
• Statistically De-identified Data.

Non-Government requests for Identifiable Data for research must include:

• A detailed description of the following:
  • Research methodology, objectives, and rationale
  • The need for specific Identifiable Data elements
  • How the results will be published or contribute to generalizable knowledge.
    
    
• Authorization to receive Identifiable Data, either through individual patient authorization or waiver of authorization approved by an Institutional Review Board or Privacy Board.

Requests for Identifiable Data by payers or providers for purposes of treatment, payment, or healthcare operations are not required to provide research methodology, justification for identifiable data, publication details, or authorization information.

Requests for De-identified Data are also not required to provide research methodology, justification for identifiable data, publication details, or authorization information.

De-identified Data may be requested for purposes including lowering total medical expenses, coordinating care, benchmarking, quality analysis, research, administrative or planning purposes, informing consumer health care decisions, or other purposes that aim to improve healthcare or public health outcomes for Commonwealth residents consistent with CHIA's stated mission.

If you have questions about the MA APCD or the data application process, please email apcd.data@chiamass.gov.

Step 1: Prepare to Submit an Application

Review the application questions and Data Use Agreement prior to submitting an application.

• Data application questions (PDF) | Word 
  
  
• Data Use Agreement (PDF) | Word

CHIA staff can provide assistance by tailoring your request, discussing data privacy and security requirements, and calculating fees or supporting fee waiver requests.

Step 2: Submit Online Application

CHIA utilizes HighQ from Thomson Reuters, a secure, cloud-based platform to submit applications for data.

• Submit your application online

Step 3: Review and Consultation 

A CHIA Subject Matter Expert will review the application materials and, if needed, work with applicants to refine data requests. Review time depends on the complexity of the request and the sensitivity of the data sought.

Step 4: Compliance Review and Approval

CHIA will confirm that the requested release is authorized under Massachusetts law.

Note: Applicants seeking Medicaid data must establish that the proposed use is “directly connected” to the administration of the Medicaid program.

Step 5: Execute Data Use Agreement

After approval, a Data Use Agreement (or equivalent agreement for government agencies) must be executed prior to data release.

Applicants should consider consulting their legal or compliance office for DUA assessment before submitting an application. CHIA will not modify the DUA unless terms are inconsistent with applicable law.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants receiving Medicaid data must also sign a Medicaid Acknowledgement of Conditions Form and Medicaid Addendum.
• Government agencies receiving Medicare data must also execute a Medicare Addendum.

Step 6: Data Released

Once the Data Use Agreement (or equivalent agreement for government agencies) is executed, CHIA processes the data extract, which is then transmitted to the recipient via secure delivery.