What does the acronym "PHI" stand for?

The acronym "PHI" stands for Protected Health Information. This term is integral to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, which establish standards for the protection of sensitive patient data. PHI includes any information that can be used to identify an individual and relates to their health, healthcare provision, or payment for healthcare services. The designation of "protected" signifies that this information is safeguarded from unauthorized access and disclosure, which is critical for maintaining patient privacy and trust in healthcare systems. Understanding PHI is essential for anyone working in healthcare settings, as it lays the foundation for compliance with HIPAA's privacy and security rules.