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We deal with requests for data sets, linked data sets, tabulations, bespoke linkage and patient tracking. We can provide access to a wide range of products and services, giving clinicians, researchers and commissioners the data required to help improve NHS services. Visit our DARS pages to make a request.
The DARS team makes sure we only supply sensitive patient level data to organisations that look after it according to Information Governance (IG) requirements, and use it to improve health and care services.
The aim of DARS is to prevent the inappropriate release of data, while making the data dissemination process as efficient and timely as possible. Case studies are available that illustrate the benefits of the process.
The process is split into application, approval, access, audit and deletion. Over the last three years, the process has been improved, resulting in a reduced average length of time to get applications approved while applications have increased by 35 per cent in 2018. Applicants often need significant support from the team to ensure that this is done legally, ethically and safely.
The Independent Group Advising on the Release of Data (IGARD) is an advisory body that oversees all new applications to DARS. They meet once a week and discuss approximately 5 to 10 applications.
The vision for DARS is to make the data dissemination process as quick and efficient as possible while preventing the inappropriate release of data and maintaining public trust. The DARS team have worked with the Research Advisory Group to tailor their advice to particular user groups. For example, they have produced a guide to obtaining data for health research, with the Medical Research Council and NHS Health Research Authority, aimed at researchers.