Which type of information is classified as Protected Health Information (PHI)?

Protected Health Information (PHI) refers to any information that can identify an individual and is held by a covered entity, such as health care providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. This includes all forms of medical records, billing information, and any other data that can link to an individual and reveal personal health details. The definition of PHI is central to HIPAA regulations because it underscores the importance of safeguarding individuals' health information against unauthorized access and breaches.

On the other hand, aggregate health data refers to statistics or trends that do not identify individuals, and thus, it does not meet the criteria for PHI. Anonymous health information is data that cannot be tied back to any individual, making it outside the scope of PHI as well. General wellness information, while potentially valuable, does not, in itself, identify individuals, so it cannot be categorized as PHI. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes the linkage between identifiable information and covered entities, ensuring clarity in what constitutes protected health data under HIPAA regulations.