What does the term "electronic PHI" (ePHI) refer to?

The term "electronic PHI" or ePHI specifically refers to Protected Health Information (PHI) that is created, stored, or transmitted in electronic form. This includes any data that is in digital format, such as patient records maintained in an electronic health record system, emails containing health information, or any other electronic communications that involve personal health details.

Understanding ePHI is crucial in the context of HIPAA regulations, as these regulations are designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals' health information when it is in electronic form. It establishes guidelines and safeguards to ensure that ePHI is appropriately managed and protected against unauthorized access, breaches, or data loss.

Other forms of PHI, such as those printed on paper, communicated verbally, or displayed publicly, do not fit the definition of ePHI. Thus, they are governed by different considerations regarding privacy and security under HIPAA.