What is meant by de-identified information?

De-identified information refers to data that has had unique identifiers removed or altered in such a way that individuals cannot be readily identified from the information. This process is essential for protecting patient privacy, especially in the context of healthcare, where data sharing is common. By stripping away personal identifiers, such as names, addresses, and other direct identifiers, de-identified information allows for the analysis and sharing of data without compromising individual privacy.

The significance of using de-identified information lies in its ability to support research, public health reporting, and other data analysis efforts while complying with privacy laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This ensures that sensitive information is safeguarded.

In contrast, data that includes names and addresses retains identification capabilities, making it identifiable and sensitive. Records that are closed to the public may refer to restricted access but do not necessarily mean that the information is de-identified. Statistics on patient populations can provide valuable insights but might not involve de-identification practices unless individuals cannot be traced back to the data. Thus, the focus on the removal of unique characteristics is key to understanding what constitutes de-identified information.