What term is used to describe healthcare organizations that handle PHI using electronic means?

The term used to describe healthcare organizations that handle Protected Health Information (PHI) using electronic means is "covered entities." In the context of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), covered entities include health plans, healthcare clearinghouses, and healthcare providers that transmit any health information in electronic form. These organizations are required to comply with HIPAA regulations, which govern the privacy and security of PHI.

The designation as a covered entity is crucial since it establishes the legal and regulatory framework that governs how these organizations must protect patient information. By being classified as a covered entity, a healthcare organization acknowledges its responsibility to implement safeguards for electronic PHI to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure, thereby ensuring that patient confidentiality is maintained.