VistA software applications are releasable through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The MUMPS operating system, which is required to operate VistA , is not a VA product and is not included. Other FOIA exceptions are noted below. Inquiries/requests for VistA and VistA Imaging software pricing and availability are submitted to the VHA National Help Desk at the following address:

The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) now distributes VistA software and VistA Imaging software in DVD or CD format.

Under FOIA, certain records may be withheld in whole or in part from the requestor if they fall within one of nine FOIA exemptions.  Two of these exemptions form the basis for withholding software by the VHA:

• Protects certain records related solely to VHA's internal rules and practices.
• Protects trade secrets and confidential commercial or financial information.

Based on these exceptions, the following packages are completely withheld from FOIA release:

• INCOME VERIFICATION MATCH
• IFCAP
• ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
• PAID
• CMOP

Please note: VistA CPRS is a comprehensive full-featured Health Information System and Electronic Health Record. The software must be properly configured to each healthcare setting by individuals knowledgeable about the software before the system is used to support healthcare delivery. VistA CPRS does not self-install.