Frequently Asked Questions

What is a limited data set?

A limited data set is a set of identifiable information in which most of the identifiers for the individual, the individual’s relatives, employers and household members have been removed. Unlike de-identified data, PHI in limited data sets may include the following

• 5-digit zip code (the 4-digit extension is not allowed)
• dates such as date of birth, death, admission, discharge
• all geographic subdivisions other than street address
IMPORTANT NOTE: Because limited data sets may contain identifiable information, they still contain PHI.