Research Requests

Researchers may request IDPH-owned data. A Research Agreement must be in place for any of these data to be used for research purposes. The Research and Ethics Review Committee (RERC) is responsible for receiving and evaluating all requests for IDPH-owned data. The RERC meets twice monthly to review applications for research agreements.

Once an application is received, it will be placed in queue for RERC review upon receipt of all necessary documentation. After receipt of the complete application, the documents will be reviewed and a response will be provided to the primary investigator. The timing of reviews and final decisions are dependent on completeness of the application, primary investigator responsiveness to comments or questions from the RERC, and the number of applications under review at that time.

To initiate a Research Agreement with IDPH, please review the below policies and guidance documents.  A completed application, including variables requested, and other required documentation (see Research Agreement Application Checklist) must be submitted for RERC review.  Questions and application materials can be sent to RERC@idph.iowa.gov.

Policies

• Research Agreement and Research and Ethics Review Committee (RERC) Policy
• Security Rules for IDPH Data  
• Disclosure of Confidential Public Health Information, Records, or Data Policy
• Research Misconduct Policy and Procedures

Guidance Documents

• Vital Records Fee Schedule
• Research Agreement Application Checklist
• Research Reference Guide
• Research vs. Public Health Practice
• Confirmation of Destruction

Forms

• Research Agreement Application 
• Vital Records Variables