Which communication method is not acceptable for conveying Protected Health Information (PHI)?

Which communication method is not acceptable for conveying Protected Health Information (PHI)?

• A. Written
• B. Electronic
• C. Verbal
• D. None of the above

Answer: (D)

The correct choice indicates that all the listed communication methods—written, electronic, and verbal—can be acceptable for conveying Protected Health Information (PHI), provided that they adhere to compliance standards and appropriate safeguards. In practice, each method of communication has specific guidelines and regulations, such as those established by HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), to ensure that PHI is protected. Written communication must be securely handled and stored, electronic communication requires encryption and secure channels, and verbal communication should be limited to private settings to minimize risk. Therefore, the selection of "none of the above" implies that there are no unacceptable methods listed, as all can potentially be used appropriately with the necessary safeguards in place.

The correct choice indicates that all the listed communication methods—written, electronic, and verbal—can be acceptable for conveying Protected Health Information (PHI), provided that they adhere to compliance standards and appropriate safeguards.

In practice, each method of communication has specific guidelines and regulations, such as those established by HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), to ensure that PHI is protected. Written communication must be securely handled and stored, electronic communication requires encryption and secure channels, and verbal communication should be limited to private settings to minimize risk.

Therefore, the selection of "none of the above" implies that there are no unacceptable methods listed, as all can potentially be used appropriately with the necessary safeguards in place.