Cohort Discovery
Learn about Cohort Discovery and gain access to the service
Firstly, request access through the NHS website
Request registration with the NHS Research SDE NetworkOnce approved, select this button
NHS Research SDE Network
The following additional NHS Research SDE datasets are available in Cohort Discovery, but require you go to through a separate approval process by the NHS Research SDE Network.
Accessing NHS Research SDE Network datasets in Cohort Discovery
Access to NHS Research SDE Network datasets requires an additional check after registering for Cohort Discovery.
Step 1: Request access to Cohort Discovery
All users must first request access to the Cohort Discovery tool via the HDR UK Gateway. Once approved, you will be assigned the data custodians you can query based on your organisation type (Academic or Industry) and geographic location. Applications are typically processed within 1–2 working days.
Step 2: Request access to NHS Research SDE Network datasets
From 1st April 2026, all organisations and individuals interested in applying to access health data through the SDE Network must complete the registration process. For more information, please follow this link: (NHS Research SDE Network Registration Service – NHS England Digital).
- If you are not yet registered, please complete the NHS Research SDE Network Registration Form: (SDE Forms).
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If you are already registered, or once your registration is confirmed, click the “Confirm approval by the NHS Research SDE Network” button above to request that NHS Research SDE Network datasets are added to your Cohort Discovery collections.
Step 3: Confirmation
