What does "PHI" stand for in healthcare compliance?

In the context of healthcare compliance, "PHI" stands for Protected Health Information. This term refers to any individually identifiable health information that is created, received, stored, or transmitted by a covered entity or business associate, as defined under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Protected Health Information includes a variety of personal health details such as a patient's medical history, test results, insurance information, and any other data that could identify the individual. The protection of PHI is crucial in healthcare compliance because it ensures the confidentiality and security of personal health information, thereby building trust between patients and healthcare providers.

By understanding PHI, healthcare organizations can implement necessary safeguards and training to comply with regulations aimed at protecting this sensitive information, ultimately preventing data breaches and ensuring patient privacy.