What is the definition of PHI in the context of HIPAA?

The correct definition of PHI in the context of HIPAA is Protected Health Information. This term refers to any information, whether oral or recorded in any form or medium, that is created or received by a healthcare provider, health plan, employer, or healthcare clearinghouse and relates to an individual’s health status, provision of healthcare, or payment for healthcare. PHI includes a wide range of identifiers that can be used to link information to an individual, such as names, addresses, birth dates, social security numbers, and medical record numbers. The emphasis on "protected" underlines the importance of safeguarding this sensitive information and ensuring patient confidentiality, which is a core principle of HIPAA regulations. Understanding this definition is crucial for compliance with HIPAA, as it forms the basis for what information must be protected and the privacy rights afforded to individuals regarding their health information.