PHI (Protected Health Information)

Protected Health Information (PHI) refers to any personal data related to an individual's health that is kept private and confidential. This includes information like medical records, treatment details, and health insurance information, as well as identifiers like names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers. PHI is safeguarded by laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to ensure that healthcare providers, insurers, and others protect the privacy of patients' health information, preventing unauthorized access or disclosure. This protection fosters trust in the healthcare system and ensures individuals' rights to privacy regarding their health.