Information that does not identify an individual is considered deidentified. That means the data is no longer PHI and isn't subject to the same rules as identifying health information -- think "white female in Oklahoma" versus "June Thompson in Tulsa."
Use this chart to easily recognize and remove patient identifiers from your e-mail. Tip: Distribute the list to all employees with e-mail access. Tell them that any information in their message that also appears in this list must be removed before they click 'Send.'
IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
Name
Address information other than city, state and ZIP code
Telephone numbers
Fax number
E-mail address
Social Security number
Medical record number
Health plan beneficiary number
Account number
Certificate/license numbers
Vehicle identifier
Device identifiers
Device serial number
Web site address
Biometric identifier
Full-face photograph
Geographic subdivisions smaller than state
Dates (except for years) related to birth, death, admission and discharge
Any other unique identifiying number, code or characteristic unless otherwise permitted
