Answer: Limited data sets can contain some identifiers
Explanation: A limited data set is middle ground between identifiable and de-identified information. In a limited data set, most identifying information has been removed. It must not include any of the individual identifiers [45 CFR 164.514(e)]. Limited data sets don’t directly identify a patient, but they may contain some identifiers.
The following identifiers may be included as part of a limited data set:
• Geographic data (town, city, state, and ZIP
code, but no street address)
• Dates relating to an individual (birth date,
admission and discharge dates)
• Unique identifying numbers,
characteristics, or codes other than those
listed under individual identifiers