Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allows you to access information from the federal government. HRSA, like all federal agencies, must disclose  information under the FOIA, unless it falls under one of nine exemptions.

How do I make a FOIA request?

  • Before making a request, first search the HRSA site to see if the information is already publicly available.
  • If the information is not on the HRSA site, submit a FOIA request to our office by email or send a letter to our mailing address

What should I include in my request?

Please provide a clear, concise description of the records/documents you are seeking. If possible, include a timeframe to focus the search. The more information you provide, the greater the likelihood of finding the records you are seeking.

Information that will also help us find the records includes:

  • the subject, title, and/or likely location of those records;
  • the approximate date(s) when the records/documents were created;
  • the agencies, offices, or individuals involved; and
  • the author, recipient, case number, file designation, or other reference number, if available.

Be sure your request includes:

  • Your name, phone number, full mailing address, and, email address.
  • This information allows us to reach you faster if we have any questions about your request.
  • State your willingness to pay fees, and/or the maximum amount of fees you are willing to pay.
  • Put “FOIA Request” as the subject line of your email or, if sent by mail, mark it on both the envelope and on the letter.

What are the FOIA exemptions?
There are nine FOIA exemptions, which protect interests such as confidential commercial, personal privacy, internal communications, and law enforcement. Visit FOIA.gov for more information. 

Date Last Reviewed:  August 2017


Contact Us

HRSA Freedom of Information Office
5600 Fishers Lane, Room 06W-54
Rockville, Maryland 20857
Email: foia@hrsa.gov
Phone: 301-443-2865

HRSA FOIA Officer: Tom Flavin

FOIA Reading Rooms

HRSA’s Public Reading Room (Rockville, MD); contact our office for available dates and times
HHS FOIA Library / Reading Room