What does PHI stand for in the context of HIPAA?

In the context of HIPAA, PHI stands for Protected Health Information. This term refers to any health information that can be tied to an individual and that is maintained or transmitted by a covered entity or its business associate. PHI includes a wide range of identifiers that can potentially reveal the identity of an individual, such as names, addresses, social security numbers, and medical records.

The term 'protected' emphasizes the legal protections in place for this type of information under HIPAA regulations, which are designed to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and security of individuals' health information. Covered entities, such as healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses, must follow strict guidelines on the access and sharing of PHI to protect patient privacy.