A resource for Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes terms that may be associated with identifying information.

Abstract

The primary objective was to compile a comprehensive list of Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes (LOINC) terms that may be associated with patient, healthcare provider, and healthcare facility identifying information. We developed a 2-step procedure for identifying LOINC terms, which consists of a keyword search of Long Common Names and filtering on selected property values, followed by expert physician review to confirm and categorize the terms. The final list comprises 1309 LOINC terms potentially associated with identifying information of patients, providers, and facilities. This list is publicly available on GitHub. Compared with electronic health record data coded with other terminologies, LOINC-coded data present unique challenges for deidentification, and a resource of LOINC terms that may be associated with identifying information will be helpful for this purpose. This resource is valuable for deidentifying LOINC-coded data, ensuring compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and preserving the privacy of patients, providers, and facilities.