How is a low threshold match defined?

A low threshold match is characterized as a patient record that is similar enough to be considered a possible match. This means there are identifiable similarities in certain data points between records that suggest they may refer to the same individual, but they do not meet the criteria for a definitive match.

In practice, a low threshold match allows healthcare providers and systems to flag records for further review, as there might be enough commonality to warrant a closer inspection despite not being an outright confirmation that they represent the same individual. This can be particularly important in patient data management to ensure accuracy and to minimize duplicate records.

The other options offer different definitions that do not align with the concept of a low threshold match. A definitive match indicates a clear direct correlation between records, while a record that is not a match at all would not support the idea of a potential connection. Additionally, a record that has no demographic information does not provide the necessary data to even consider it a potential match.