Which specific piece of personal information is used to verify a patient's identity?

• A. Address
• B. Phone Number
• C. DOB (Date of Birth)
• D. Insurance Policy Number

Answer: (C)

Verifying a patient’s identity relies on using a personal identifier that is tied to the individual and doesn’t change frequently. The date of birth fits this role well because it is specific to the person and remains constant over time. In practice, healthcare providers often confirm identity by matching the patient’s name with their date of birth to ensure the right records, medications, and treatments are connected to the correct person. Addresses and phone numbers can change, making them less reliable for identity checks, and an insurance policy number identifies coverage rather than the person themselves. So, the date of birth is the best choice for confirming identity.