What does PHI stand for?

The correct answer is "Protected Health Information." PHI represents any health information that can be linked to a specific individual, which includes details about a person's health status, the provision of health care, or payment for health care that can be used to identify that individual. The definition of PHI is a key component of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which establishes standards to protect sensitive patient information from being disclosed without the patient's consent or knowledge.

Understanding PHI is crucial, especially for healthcare providers and organizations, as it guides them in ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations regarding the handling and sharing of patient data while safeguarding individual privacy rights.