Modern healthcare providers are responsible not just for their patients’ physical safety, but also for their digital protection. With digitized records, electronic patient health information (ePHI), and the increasing popularity of telemedicine, the healthcare industry has become a major target for cyber-attacks. Given the stakes involved, it is essential to improve patient data security standards and avoid breaches.
1. Access Controls
Access control is an integral part of data security, particularly where ePHI is concerned. Access to health records should always be granted on the principle of least privilege – that is, staff should only be able to access the information necessary for their work. This prevents unauthorized access.
Some best practices include:
- Role-based access control (RBAC): RBAC assigns different levels of access based on the employee’s role.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA requires users to provide two or more verification methods – such as a password and a code sent to their phone – before accessing sensitive systems.
- Audits: Maintain thorough logs of who accessed patient records and when. This can help identify unauthorized access, and track down the source of any breach that occurs.
2. Data Encryption
Data encryption protects information by scrambling it so that it cannot be read without an encryption key. This ensures that, even if ePHI is stolen, it cannot be used. Data at rest and in transit should be encrypted.
Types of data encryption include:
- Full-disk encryption: Encrypts all data stored on a device.
- End-to-end encryption (E2EE): Encrypts data as it travels between devices.
- Email encryption: Encrypts emails, protecting any information that healthcare providers are required to send in this manner.
3. Regular Security Audits
Security audits are essential for identifying potential vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems and processes. They ensure that security measures are being followed correctly, and that any gaps are addressed promptly.
During a security audit, healthcare providers should:
- Assess compliance with healthcare regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
- Review access logs to detect unusual patterns that may indicate a threat.
- Evaluate third-party vendors to ensure they follow strict security protocols.
- Test incident response plans to check that they are effective.
4. Data Security Training
Phishing attacks, weak passwords, and improper ePHI handling can all lead to data breaches. To combat these risks, healthcare providers must invest in ongoing staff training that includes:
- Phishing awareness: Teach staff how to recognize and avoid phishing scams.
- Password security: Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords and discourage password sharing.
- Data handling procedures: Provide guidance on how to handle patient data securely, including proper methods for transmitting, storing, and disposing of information.
5. Mobile Devices and Remote Work
Healthcare providers offering telehealth services or mobile applications must ensure that these are secure. Employees also often access ePHI from smartphones, tablets, and laptops, which can serve as attack vectors.
To secure mobile devices and remote work, healthcare organizations should:
- Restrict personal devices: Staff should only use approved, secure devices to access patient data.
- Enforce Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): When using healthcare systems from remote locations, employees should use VPNs to encrypt their internet connections.
- Confirm identity: Any staff performing telehealth services must be careful to verify the identity of the person they are speaking to before proceeding with any discussion.
6. Data Breach Response Plan
The strongest security measures still cannot stop every data breach. A breach response plan will help mitigate any damage and ensure a fast recovery.
A data breach response plan should include:
- Incident response team: Identify key personnel responsible for managing and responding to a breach.
- Breach containment: Outline steps to contain the breach, such as isolating affected systems or accounts.
- Communication plan: Define how to notify patients, regulators, and other stakeholders in the event of a breach.
- Recovery: Plan how data and operations will be recovered.
Protect ePHI with Robust Data Security Solutions
Data protection is a top priority for every healthcare provider, due to the high risk that a breach could occur. When the consequences of failure can include financial loss, compromised patient care, and even legal penalties, organizations cannot afford to fall behind. By taking proactive steps such as security awareness training, encryption, and access controls, providers can protect ePHI and prevent cyber-attacks.
If you find cybersecurity difficult to manage on your own, Ascentient can help. Our comprehensive managed services turn challenges into solutions, preparing your defenses to handle any threat and monitoring in real-time for potential concerns. Discover our managed cybersecurity services to learn more.