What does PHI stand for?

Protected Health Information is a key term within the context of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations. It refers to any individually identifiable health information that is maintained or transmitted in any form or medium, including electronic, paper, or oral. This information can include details about a person's past, present, or future health condition, the provision of health care to the individual, or payment for the provision of health care. The 'protected' aspect is critical, as it signifies that this information is subject to strict privacy and security measures under HIPAA to safeguard against unauthorized disclosure and ensure patient confidentiality.

Understanding this term is fundamental for anyone working within the healthcare sector or handling health-related data, as it outlines the types of information that must be protected according to legal requirements. The other terms listed, while they may sound relevant, do not appropriately capture the specific legal definition and protections associated with health information under HIPAA.