What could happen to a person if their PHI is compromised?

When an individual's Protected Health Information (PHI) is compromised, it can lead to a multitude of serious consequences for that person. Both identity theft and discrimination are potential risks associated with the exposure of sensitive health information.

Identity theft can occur when someone gains access to another person's PHI, which may include personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers, medical histories, and insurance details. This information can be misused to commit fraud, open accounts in the victim's name, or engage in other illegal activities that can have devastating financial implications for the individual whose information has been stolen.

Discrimination can arise when a person's health information is improperly accessed or disclosed. For example, if a person's medical history indicates a specific condition, they may face bias or unfair treatment in various contexts, such as employment, insurance coverage, or social situations. This can lead to significant emotional and psychological stress, further exacerbating the impact of the compromise.

Thus, both identity theft and discrimination are critical repercussions of PHI compromise, making the selection of 'Both A and B' the most comprehensive understanding of the potential outcomes faced by individuals in such situations.