Limited Data Set (LDS)

A HIPAA-specific term, denoting a dataset that contains PHI with only indirect HIPAA identifiers. Specifically, the following types of HIPAA identifiers may be included:

• Geographic subdivisions smaller than a state.
• All elements of dates (except year) for dates that are directly related to an individual; and all ages over 89 and all elements of dates (including year) indicative of such age
• Any other unique identifying number, characteristic, or code

See Research A-Z webpage Limited Data Sets for guidance on the requirements for using or disclosing an LDS.