What is a good method for securing emails that include PHI or PII?

The recommended method for securing emails that contain Protected Health Information (PHI) or Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is to encrypt the emails before sending. Encryption protects sensitive data by converting it into a coded format, which ensures that only authorized recipients with the proper decryption key can read the contents. This is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information and complying with various regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

Using encryption also minimizes the risk of data breaches in case the email is intercepted during transmission. Therefore, incorporating encryption into email communications containing PHI or PII is an essential best practice for safeguarding personal information and adhering to regulatory standards.

In contrast, methods like not securing emails, using generic subject lines, or sending emails without attachments do not provide adequate protection for sensitive information. Not securing emails leaves them vulnerable to unauthorized access, which can lead to breaches. Generic subject lines can still disclose information about the email's content without securing it, and sending emails without attachments may not be feasible if the intention is to transmit important documents. Thus, encrypting emails is the most effective and responsible approach for protecting sensitive data.