In the modern world, almost every sector has adopted a digital approach to help efficiently manage its data. Healthcare is no different.
With over 500 U.S healthcare data breaches each year since 2020, the stats are a little alarming but there are a few strategies that can be put into action to effectively reduce the risks.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the threats and take a look at how to mitigate them.
Health Data Risks Overview
Every company is concerned with the security of any data but unauthorized access to health data infringes on a patient’s right to personal privacy.
Healthcare providers have a legally binding duty to safeguard patient data. Let’s look at the health data risks out there.
Breaches in Security
The vast amount of sensitive data that Healthcare organizations store makes for an attractive target. Unauthorized access can be the result of improper handling of the data, which can lead to theft and manipulation.
Data breaches leave individuals vulnerable to identity theft and fraud. More often than not, these breaches are due to hacking or IT incidents. Large data breaches have substantial financial repercussions, costing over 10 million dollars per breach.
Third-party Entities
Health-related mobile apps or wearable devices that monitor fitness levels or help track diets and medical conditions are incredible modern-day tools that many have integrated into their lives.
However, the user data is often transmitted to third-party entities, which risks data privacy and security. It is, therefore, paramount that healthcare providers select reputable apps and devices with prioritized data protection and encryption.
Socially Engineered Attacks
Cybercriminals can attack at either end of the spectrum by employing phishing tactics and socially engineered tricks. The creation of fake medical websites and emails with health-related scams offering bogus treatments or gift cards is a big risk on an individual level.
At the same time, entire organizations are often at the threat of sophisticated ransomware attacks from cybercriminals.
Navigating Regulatory Compliance
The regulatory landscape surrounding health data protection is pretty complex.
Healthcare providers and organizations must prioritize cyber resilience and regulatory compliance to protect themselves legally as well as build integrity.
Millions of individual’s data is breached every year. With so many reported breaches and attacks accountability is needed within the healthcare system.
There are regulations and laws in place but the framework is fragmented. Laws such as the HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) govern informational security within the U.S. but lack details that address digital threats.
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union imposes a stricter set of requirements for handling personal data.
The above examples are legal requirements that must be complied with. Failure to do so results in severe penalties and leads to patients taking legal action.
Ensuring and maintaining regulatory compliance is multifaceted. Organizations need policies that outline procedures with robust security measures in place to protect sensitive health data.
Constant monitoring and adaptation are also great industrial practices to ensure compliance is met. Regulations are subject to amendments and healthcare entities need to stay informed and ahead of updates and adjust their practices accordingly.
Compliance should go beyond mere legal requirements to reflect a commitment to ethical principles. Implementing robust security measures mitigates compliance risks and fosters trust and transparency between providers and patients.
8 Health Data Protection Strategies
To protect data, individuals must stay informed and be vigilant. Modern-day tools such as encryption and VPNs can help, but the biggest form of defence comes from individuals taking sensible measures.
#1. Passwords and Access
Healthcare portals should use strong, unique passwords for access and where possible implement multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.
#2. Software Updates
Devices, apps, and software should be updated regularly to ensure the latest security patches and fixes are in place to safeguard health data.
#3. Privacy Settings
You can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your health data by adjusting and limiting the data that health-related apps and devices can collect and share in the privacy settings. Disable any unnecessary features that may compromise you.
#4. Exercise Caution Online
It is important to be cautious of health-related scams, and fraudulent websites. Never disclose personal health information on social media or forums and avoid suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
#5. Monitor Accounts
Always remember to vigilantly check your medical bills and insurance statements for unusual activity. Discrepancies, suspicious transactions, and unauthorized access should be reported swiftly before anything can escalate.
#7. Encrypting Data
Sensitive data is vulnerable during transmission and storage. Encryption can protect medical records from unauthorized access to maintain confidentiality.
#8. Using a VPN
VPNs mask your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic route. Using a reputable VPN for healthcare portal access reduces the potential for eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks. The best VPN service should have strong encryption protocols and a wide range of server locations.
The Bottom Line
The world is constantly advancing technologically. Where tech and healthcare intersect, there is a legal and ethical duty to safeguard health data.
The risks associated with data breaches can be mitigated by adopting strategic measures.
Staying informed and proactively adjusting your practices to remain compliant with regulations is key.
