Which of the following is considered secure when handling patient data?

Storing patient data on a VA system with restricted access is considered secure because it employs strict protocols to protect sensitive information. Such systems are specifically designed to comply with regulations like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which mandates that patient data be kept confidential and secure. Access to these systems is typically limited to authorized personnel who have undergone training in handling sensitive information, which minimizes the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.

In contrast, using personal email for communication poses significant risks as these platforms lack the security measures inherent in VA systems and may expose sensitive patient information to unauthorized parties. Similarly, using shared drives for patient files can create vulnerabilities due to the potential for accidental access or sharing by individuals who are not authorized. Maintaining paper copies in the office is also not secure by modern standards, as physical documents can be easily lost, stolen, or improperly accessed if not handled with stringent protective measures.