What does ePHI stand for in the context of HIPAA?

ePHI stands for Electronic Protected Health Information. In the context of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), ePHI refers to any individually identifiable health information that is created, stored, transmitted, or received in electronic form. This includes a broad range of health data, such as medical records, billing information, and personal health details, all of which must be protected under HIPAA regulations to ensure patient confidentiality and security.

Understanding ePHI is crucial, as HIPAA sets national standards for safeguarding sensitive patient information, and the "protected" aspect emphasizes that this information is legally shielded from unauthorized access or disclosure. Protecting ePHI is vital for maintaining patient trust and complying with legal obligations surrounding health privacy.