It’s no secret that healthcare is big business and with that comes big responsibility.
Especially as it concerns patient’s health care records.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act - commonly referred to as HIPAA - was enacted in 1996 to set both privacy and security standards for covered entities and their business associates in the healthcare industry.
IT - or Internet Technology - plays a large role in how patient data is accessed, stored and shared in modern times, so it’s of utmost importance for any organization handling sensitive patient data to protect this information from being breached by an unauthorized person.
On the technical end, this is done by using Email security that encrypts any Email correspondence that relays personally identifiable health or financial information about patients. Email encryption prevents unintended recipients from accessing information that’s not meant for them, which is considered a data breach. This type of breach can result in costly fines and other penalties.
Mobile And Laptop Security Are Key Components To A Security Strategy For HIPAA Compliance
Mobile and laptop security are further measures that help establish HIPAA IT compliance. These security measures help protect corporate issued laptops and mobile phones that are used to transmit or store patient data from loss or theft, another serious breach risk. With the proper safeguards in place, IT managers have the tools to remotely “lock down” a laptop or mobile phone that has went missing and gives them the technology needed to recover the lost or stolen device. This prevents the person that has the device from using it, accessing critical files stored on it, getting access to Emails and other contact information, as well as rendering it worthless in the shady aftermarket of reselling and pawn. GPS and IP tracking help to establish the location of the device, so it can be recovered.
If you’ve been sitting on the fence about implementing technical IT compliance for HIPAA requirements, there’s no time left to wait. Upcoming audits could put your business practices concerning security and privacy under the microscope. If you are unable to prove that you’re meeting HIPAA IT compliance requirements, it could result in heavy fines and stiff penalties for your business, even if it’s considered non-profit.
If you need a HIPAA Compliant IT solution, we can help. You can learn more at our Cloud Email Security webinars or take advantage of our Competitive Buyout Offer - valid through September 30, 2011.
