The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal law that sets standards for the protection of certain health information. It applies to healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses, as well as their business associates who handle protected health information (PHI). Understanding what types of PHI are covered by HIPAA is crucial for businesses in the healthcare industry to ensure compliance with privacy regulations. An attorney who has experience addressing matters related to data privacy and HIPAA compliance can provide invaluable guidance for healthcare providers, including in cases where data breaches have resulted in the unauthorized disclosure of PHI.
Types of Protected Health Information
HIPAA defines protected health information as any individually identifiable health information held or transmitted by a covered entity or its business associate. This includes: