What is protected health information?

Protected health information (PHI) refers to any health information that can be used to identify an individual and is maintained or transmitted by a covered entity, such as a healthcare provider, health plan, or healthcare clearinghouse. The crucial aspect of PHI is that it must include one or more of the 18 identifiers outlined by HIPAA, which may include a person’s name, address, birth date, Social Security number, and medical record number, among others.

This definition is significant because it not only protects the privacy of patients but also extends to any health data that can potentially disclose the identity of the individual to whom it pertains. Understanding this definition is vital for healthcare professionals to ensure they comply with HIPAA regulations and adequately safeguard patient information, thus maintaining trust and legal compliance in their healthcare practices.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the scope of PHI. While some healthcare-related information may be collected by providers, not all of it meets the criteria of being protected or identifiable. Similarly, financial information alone does not encompass the breadth of health-related data protected by HIPAA. Lastly, information that is not related to healthcare does not qualify as PHI at all. This comprehensive understanding underscores the importance of protecting not just any