What is the research data request process?
The process enables qualified researchers to request access to specific ACGME data for scholarly research in medical education. Requests are submitted using a standardized form. A committee of ACGME leaders and staff members meets monthly to evaluate and ensure that requests align with criteria around the responsible use of data, the potential to generate knowledge in medical education, and the availability of staff and other resources to fulfill the request. The committee will either approve or deny the request or could ask a requestor to submit additional information. Requestors will be notified of the committee’s decision by email. After a request is approved, the requestor’s employer and the ACGME will negotiate and sign a data sharing agreement.
Why did the ACGME create this process?
The ACGME formalized this process to provide a consistent, criteria-based approach to evaluating requests to use ACGME data for research. The process supports valuable medical education research while ensuring responsible data stewardship, protection of privacy and confidentiality, alignment with the ACGME Mission, and appropriate use of organizational resources.
Does submitting a request guarantee access to data?
No. All data sharing is at the discretion of the ACGME, and the ACGME may decline requests for any reason, based on defined criteria and organizational capacity to fulfill a request. Approved requests will receive specific data files in agreement with the conditions of an executed data sharing agreement.
What types of ACGME data may be available for research?
The following may be available for research: deidentified and/or summarized data about residents or fellows, Milestones assessments, programs, and Sponsoring Institutions. More specifics about types of data that may be requested are outlined in the request form.
Can anyone submit a request for ACGME data?
Anyone seeking to use ACGME data for medical education research can submit a request. The ACGME only considers requests for non-commercial, non-partisan, scientific research.
What ACGME data are already publicly available?
Explore Public Data gives users access to interactive dashboards about accredited programs and Sponsoring Institutions, and aggregate physician data. A full breakdown of the data included and available there can be found on ACGME Cloud | Support.
How are requests evaluated and by whom?
A committee of ACGME leaders and other staff members with relevant expertise in research and ACGME policy will evaluate requests on a regular, monthly basis following specified criteria.
How long does the review process take?
The time can vary depending on the complexity of the data being requested, number of parties in a Data Sharing Agreement, and the completeness and detail in the request. After submitting a request, expect to hear back within four to six weeks. However, if your request is approved, note that it can take up to several months to receive the data file.
How does one submit a request?
To submit a request, go to ACGME Cloud, click on "Research," and then on the “Request ACGME Data” button to begin completing the form. A PDF version of the form is available for review to help the requester prepare responses before completing and submitting the online form. After submitting the form, you will be prompted to verify your email address. Once your email has been successfully verified, you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging the verification. You will then receive a second confirmation email indicating that your request form has been successfully submitted and received for processing.
What information is required with a request?
Be prepared to describe the study team, the research objectives, analytical methods, the expected contribution to knowledge in medical education, the data security plan, the types of data or fields being requested, funding sources (if any), and the project’s duration. In addition, before a data file is provided for an approved request, confirmation of IRB approval or exemption will be required.
Can a requester begin completing the request form, save where they are, and come back to finish and submit it later?
No. The form does not support saving progress and returning later, so reviewing the required components and preparing ahead of time is strongly encouraged. A PDF version of the form is available for review to help requesters prepare responses before completing and submitting the online form.