What is the correct course of action for handling documents that contain Protected Health Information (PHI)?

The appropriate course of action for handling documents that contain Protected Health Information (PHI) is to shred them using appropriate means. This action is crucial to ensure the confidentiality and security of sensitive patient information. Shredding documents effectively destroys them, preventing unauthorized access or potential breaches of privacy.

When dealing with PHI, adhering to strict privacy regulations is essential, such as those established by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). The act mandates that entities protect sensitive patient data against any improper disclosure. Shredding is a secure method of disposal that aligns with these regulatory requirements, ensuring that the information cannot be reconstructed or retrieved by unauthorized individuals.

Other methods, such as leaving documents unattended, sharing them via email, or simply storing them in a filing cabinet, do not provide sufficient protection for PHI. Leaving documents unattended may expose them to unauthorized access, sharing them via email can lead to unintentional breaches, and storing them does not guarantee their confidentiality unless proper security measures are in place. Thus, shredding is the safest and most compliant choice for handling PHI.