Final answer:
PHI is Protected Health Information that includes personal health information that is protected by law. It is disclosed when shared or made accessible to others. Protecting PHI is important to ensure patient privacy and comply with laws such as HIPAA.
Step-by-step explanation:
PHI stands for Protected Health Information. It is a term used in the context of healthcare and refers to any personal health information that is protected by law. PHI includes information such as a person's medical history, diagnoses, treatment plans, and any other health-related information that can be linked to an individual.
PHI is disclosed when it is shared, transmitted, or made accessible to others in any way. This can happen through various means, including verbal communication, written records, electronic health records, or through electronic communication channels.
Protecting PHI is important to ensure patient privacy and comply with laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Healthcare professionals and organizations are required to take appropriate measures to safeguard PHI and avoid unauthorized disclosures.