Protecting health data through trusted governance
Responsible access to health data
All use of iCARE data is governed through established approval processes. Researchers must demonstrate that their project:
- Has a clear research purpose
- Provides potential public benefit
- Uses only the data required
- Meets legal and ethical requirements
- Has appropriate governance approvals
Researchers access de-identified data within the secure iCARE environment rather than receiving copies of datasets.
The Five Safes framework
iCARE follows the Five Safes framework, a recognised approach for managing access to sensitive health information.
Safe people
Access is restricted to approved users who have:
- Completed required training
- Received appropriate approvals
- Agreed to data use responsibilities
Safe projects
Projects must demonstrate:
- A clear research purpose
- Appropriate approvals
- Responsible use of health data
- Potential benefit to patients and healthcare
Safe settings
Data is accessed within a secure technical environment with:
- Controlled user access
- Secure infrastructure
- Monitoring and auditing processes
Safe data
Data is protected through:
- De-identification
- Data minimisation
- Controlled access to approved datasets
Safe outputs
Research outputs are checked before release to ensure they:
- Do not risk identifying individuals
- Follow confidentiality requirements
- Meet governance standards
Contact us
For general enquiries email: imperial.dcs@nhs.net
For data access enquiries email: imperial.dataaccessrequest@nhs.net