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Using OpenSAFELY for research: how the process works

There are 3 steps to complete before you can start using OpenSAFELY. If you are new to OpenSAFELY, you must complete these steps in the order we’ve set out.

These steps will take some time and patience to work through. Completing the entire process from beginning to end will probably take several weeks.

  1. Make sure your project idea is feasible
    • This checks that your research idea is a good match for OpenSAFELY. After completing this step, you should get an instant result on whether your idea is likely to be feasible.
  2. Apply to become an OpenSAFELY Full User or Collaborator
    • This makes sure that every member of your project team has appropriate skills, qualifications and experience to work with OpenSAFELY. Every member of your team should fill out this form individually.
  3. Apply to start a new project
    • This step asks for details about your project proposal. Information from this form will be reviewed by the Bennett Institute and NHS England.
Next: go to step 1