What is a 'data use agreement'?

A data use agreement is specifically designed to facilitate the sharing of protected health information (PHI) for research purposes while implementing safeguards to protect that data. This agreement outlines the permitted uses and disclosures of PHI, ensuring that the data is utilized in compliance with relevant regulations, including HIPAA. The purpose of a data use agreement is to foster collaboration in research while maintaining the privacy and security of individuals' health information.

In the context of health research, having a framework through which researchers can access necessary data, while simultaneously adhering to privacy standards, is crucial. This agreement will typically include conditions that require data to be kept secure, used only for specified research purposes, and not individually identifiable. By providing this structure, a data use agreement serves as an essential tool to balance the needs of research with the necessity of protecting patient privacy.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of a data use agreement. For example, prohibiting any sharing of PHI outright would not support collaborative research efforts. Guidelines for reporting data breaches are unrelated to the use and sharing of data, and listing authorized personnel does not encompass the agreements made for data sharing in research contexts.