Before attending the first class

At least a week before the first class, it is important that you request access to the MIMIC-III database. The database, although de-identified, contains detailed information regarding the clinical care of patients, so it must be treated with appropriate care and respect.

Complete the required training course

Prior to requesting access to MIMIC, you will need to complete the CITI “Data or Specimens Only Research” course:

  • First register on the CITI program website, selecting “Massachusetts Institute of Technology Affiliates” as your organization affilitation: https://www.citiprogram.org/index.cfm?pageID=154&icat=0&ac=0 (NB: MIT students and staff should instead register as MIT Personnel by following the link at: http://couhes.mit.edu/training-research-involving-human-subjects )
  • Follow the links to add a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Affiliates course. In the Human Subjects training category, select the “Data or Specimens Only Research” course
  • Complete the course and save a PDF copy of your certificate by clicking on the “My Reports” tab, then selecting the relevant “View/Print” link in the completion report column. Your completion report should list all of the modules you completed for the course, with associated scores.

Request access to MIMIC-III:

  • Create an account on PhysioNet using the following link: https://physionet.org/users/login.shtml
  • Follow the instructions on PhysioNet to apply for access to the MIMIC-III project: https://physionet.org/works/MIMICIIIClinicalDatabase/access.shtml. Remember to provide your CITI training certificate, and add the following details to your email:
    • General research area for which the data will be used: HST-953, Secondary analysis of health records, Fall 2016
    • Name of human studies training course completed: Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI Program)
    • Reference category: Supervisor
    • Reference’s name: Leo Celi
    • Reference’s telephone number: (617) 253-7937
    • Reference’s email address: lceli@mit.edu
    • Reference’s title: Instructor
  • When your application has been approved you will receive emails containing instructions for downloading the database from PhysioNetWorks.