What does the abbreviation 'PHI' stand for?

The abbreviation 'PHI' stands for Protected Health Information. This term refers to any information held by a covered entity that concerns health status, provision of health care, or payment for health care that can be linked to an individual. PHI is a critical concept in the realm of healthcare compliance and privacy laws, particularly in relation to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which establishes standards for the protection of sensitive patient information. Understanding what constitutes PHI is essential for those working in the field, ensuring that individual privacy is maintained and that healthcare laws are complied with.