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Protecting Your Protected Health Information (PHI)

Protected Health InformationI was using the ATM when I noticed a man lingering around the machine. It seemed odd and as I walked away I started wondering, “Did he just see me enter my PIN?”  30 minutes later, I went to pay for my groceries and my wallet was gone.  I panicked. My first thought was “Identity scam? That guy took my PIN and my wallet and now he’s taking my identity?”

Stolen identities – and health insurance scams  – happen.  Luckily, all Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) members can keep their protected health information (PHI) in the right hands.

Taking Charge of Your Health
Your PHI is safe so long as it’s shared with those you trust.    

PHI not only includes medical records, it also involves health-related documents that show personal data, such as your:

  • Address
  • Birthdate
  • Social Security Number1

If you’re not sure what is – and isn’t – PHI, ask yourself these questions:

  • Does the document show anything linked to my health issue?
  • Is my name on the document?
  • Can I be identified based on what’s in the document?  
  • Is the account I used to pay for my health care shown in the document?

If the document doesn’t relate to your health, it is probably not viewed as PHI.

Your Standard authorization form
Using a Standard authorization form  lets you manage who can get information about your health conditions and claims. For example, you might allow BCBSIL to talk with your daughter if she’s helping manage your care., but you’re not obligated to do so and using the form is completely up to you. You don’t have to use one if you don’t want anyone to have access to your information.

Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and Dependents
If you need an EOB form,  they’re conveniently available on Blue Access for MembersSM (BAM) for the last 18 months.  If you’re covering dependents on your health plan, you don’t need a Standard authorization form to receive – and view – their EOB information in BAM’s Claim Center. However, dependents can’t see EOBs for yourself or any other dependents without the form.  

We're all in this together. Let’s work to protect your information today and every day.

1 U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

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