What does "transmitting PHI" include under HIPAA?

Under HIPAA, "transmitting PHI" specifically pertains to the actions involved in handling protected health information in electronic formats. This definition encompasses sending and receiving PHI through various electronic means, including emails, faxes, or any digital communication channels. Additionally, it involves the storage of PHI in electronic formats, which aligns with the broader perspective of protecting this sensitive data when it is electronically transmitted.

The implications of this are significant, as HIPAA requires that all entities involved in the transmitting of PHI establish safeguards to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and security of that information during electronic transmission. Because electronic formats come with risks such as data breaches or unauthorized access, HIPAA's regulations are focused heavily on these methods of PHI handling.

In contrast, receiving PHI in physical format, storing PHI in fireproof cabinets, and sharing PHI verbally do not fall under the category of electronic transmission and therefore are not included in the definition as specified by HIPAA regarding "transmitting PHI." Each of those scenarios represents a different aspect of data handling that may have its own compliance guidelines but does not directly pertain to the transmission of PHI electronically.