NCHS Survey Data Linked to Department of Veterans Affairs Administrative Data Files

Description

NCHS has linked 2005-2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and 2005-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative data through fiscal year 2020. Linkage of NCHS survey participants with VA administrative data provides the opportunity to examine a wide range of health-related topics for Veterans, including Veteran status and utilization of VA benefit programs.

Data Access

Where to apply

https://www.cdc.gov/rdc/

Fees

NCHS management, access and other fees apply. https://www.cdc.gov/rdc/application-process/fees-and-invoicing.html

Access modality

Public Use File available

Public-use version

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data-linkage/index.htm

Summary of differences

The restricted-use file may include lower-level geography and select variables not available on the public-use file due to possible disclosure risk. Most restricted-use geographic NCHS variables can only be used to merge external data or to categorize geographic areas with similar characteristics. Researchers should not estimate regions smaller than the specific survey's sample design would support, even when smaller levels of geography are available.

Geography differs from restricted-use file (RUF)

Variable detail differs from Restricted Use File (RUF)

Yes