Which of the following best describes PHI?

Protected Health Information (PHI) refers specifically to any health information that can be used to identify an individual and is created, received, stored, or transmitted by a healthcare provider, health plan, or healthcare clearinghouse. This definition encompasses a wide range of data, including medical records, billing information, or any details related to an individual's past, present, or future physical or mental health.

The term underscores the importance of privacy and confidentiality in healthcare situations, emphasizing that this type of information is subject to strict regulations under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA sets standards for the protection of PHI, ensuring that sensitive patient information is safeguarded from unauthorized access or disclosure.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the legal definition or scope of PHI. Personal Health Insurance refers specifically to insurance coverage, while Public Health Information pertains to data collected for public health purposes, and Personal Health Identification might imply identification tied to health but lacks the formal context and protections associated with PHI under HIPAA.