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Research

Dimensions

Dimensions logo

Product description

This ready-to-use software platform links many databases and combines them into one searchable database. By compiling many databases into one, Dimensions allows researchers to evaluate a broader range of findings. This all-encompassing data infrastructure empowers researchers to explore connections across multiple fields and discover surprising new insights.

How we use Dimensions at VA

This research platform transforms the way research findings are stored, accessed, discovered, and evaluated. Dimensions can link information from previous VA research projects, updates from publications, patents, clinical trials, datasets, and policy papers to deliver a more holistic view of the research landscape. VA researchers can discover rich, new insights from existing data much more efficiently.

No VA Data

For SaaS products that do not contain VA-owned data*, there is now an expedited process that does not require a traditional VA authority to operate (ATO). Criteria include the following:

  • User owns a device (even if VA paid for the purchase of the device) such as a CPAP or glucometer that uses a SaaS product to share patient data (non-VA data*).
  • SaaS product has no direct connections or interfaces to VA systems or network.
  • Users consent to share their data (which may include PII and PHI) directly with the SaaS provider.
  • SaaS providers must have published terms and conditions for user consent.
  • VA providers access data in a view-only mode or with limited functionality per the user’s consent.

*According to Circular a130, anything that VA creates, collects, processes, maintains, disseminates, or disposes of by or for the federal government is considered federal information (VA data).

VA providers may not enter any VA information into this product; it must adhere to no VA data standards mentioned above.

The next step

If VA employees would like to use or purchase this previously approved service, please submit a SaaS inquiry form to confirm your use case and get procurement approval.

Submit a Request
  • Status: Approved
  • VA Authorization Level: No VA Data
  • Funding: End-user funding required
  • Product Line: Medical Research, Education, and Public Health

Link Disclaimer

This page includes links to other websites outside our control and jurisdiction. VA is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of non-VA Web sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policy or terms and conditions of those sites to fully understand what information is collected and how it is used.

Statement of Endorsement

Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government, and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.