Healthcare data security is a critical concern due to the sensitive nature of the information involved. Several challenges and risk factors contribute to the complexity of securing healthcare data.
HIPAA and Healthcare Data Security:
Healthcare data security is significantly influenced by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, which provide general direction on managing sensitive healthcare data and outline the tools and techniques needed to protect healthcare data .
Risk Factors Associated with Healthcare Data Security:
Use of outdated/legacy systems
Email scams with malware
Internal employees, contractors, vendors, etc.
Unsecure or poor wireless networks
Lack of strong passwords
Ransomware
Mobile applications
Lack of interoperability
IoT (Internet of Things) , ,.
Challenges and Solutions:
Complexity of Systems:
The interconnected nature of electronic medical records, insurance databases, and financial systems in healthcare organizations makes securing data a challenge. A security breach in one system can compromise the entire network, leaving the organization vulnerable to cyber-attacks ,.
Lack of Resources:
Many healthcare organizations do not have the resources to hire dedicated IT personnel or invest in cybersecurity solutions, leaving them vulnerable to cyber-attacks due to the shortage of cybersecurity experts .
Human Error:
Human error also poses a significant challenge to healthcare data security .
Interconnected Healthcare Systems:
The reliance on electronic health records and digital platforms to store and share patient information presents significant security risks, as a breach or unauthorized access to one system could compromise the entire network .
Third-party Health Company Issues:
The healthcare industry increasingly relies on technology provided by third-party companies, which introduces additional security challenges.
Inadequate Hardened Security of Medical Devices:
The inadequate security of medical devices is another challenge in healthcare data security .
Global Impact:
Healthcare security breaches accounted for a loss of $6 trillion globally by the end of 2020, highlighting the significant financial impact of cybersecurity challenges in the healthcare sector .