PHI

Personal Healthcare Information

Any information about an individual’s health or healthcare that can be used to identify them. PHI includes information such as an individual’s medical history, diagnoses, treatment plans, test results, and other health-related information.

PHI is considered sensitive and confidential and is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. HIPAA sets standards for the protection of PHI and requires covered entities (such as healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses) and their business associates to take appropriate measures to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of PHI.

PHI is typically collected and maintained by healthcare providers, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. It may be shared with other healthcare providers, insurance companies, and other parties as necessary for the provision and payment of healthcare services. It is important to protect PHI to ensure individuals’ privacy and their health information security.

See also: ePHI

• Abbreviation: PHI