How is unsecured PHI defined?

Unsecured PHI, or Protected Health Information, refers to any health information that is not adequately protected according to the standards set forth by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. This standard emphasizes the need for reasonable and appropriate safeguards to protect PHI from unauthorized access or disclosure. When PHI lacks these protective measures, it is deemed "unsecured," and as such, it is more vulnerable to breaches and unauthorized access.

This definition aligns directly with the regulatory framework established under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which aims to ensure the confidentiality and security of health information. By identifying items that fall outside the security standards, stakeholders can better understand what constitutes unsecured PHI and take appropriate actions to mitigate risks.

In contrast, physical security measures, such as storing PHI in locked files, do not necessarily address the broader definition of "unsecured," as they could still be subject to unauthorized access if not compliant with the established security standards. Additionally, encryption and disclosures with consent focus on specific protective measures or legal considerations rather than the overarching definition of what constitutes unsecured PHI.