Introduction

In this section:

• What is the UDS?
• How are UDS data used?

Health Center Program awardees and look-alikes report on a core set of operational and performance measures each calendar year as defined in the Uniform Data System (UDS).

What is the UDS?

The UDS is a standardized data set and annual program requirement that is defined in Section 330 of the Public Health Service Act. 

Health centers are expected to have a system in place to collect and organize data related to the HRSA-approved scope of project, as required to meet Health and Human Services (HHS) reporting requirements, including those data elements for UDS reporting; and that they submit timely, accurate, and complete UDS reports in accordance with HRSA instructions.

How are UDS data used?

Through the UDS, health centers report annually on patient characteristics, services provided, clinical processes and health outcomes, staffing, patients’ use of services, and costs and revenues. 

These data help inform efforts to further expand access to care, address health disparities, improve quality of care, and reduce health care costs. UDS data are also used to document program effectiveness; identify administrative, clinical, and financial trends over time; and compare clinical quality measures (CQMs) with national benchmarks.

View UDS data.