Converting a localized paper or electronic records system to network-based EMR software that transmits data over the internet may give some people pause. EMR is by definition critical information that must be protected at all costs. The good news is that the security built into EMR software protects medical data better than traditional systems can.
Protection Against Intrusion
One aspect of data security involves keeping it from unauthorized parties. People might deliberately try to break into a system to steal patient credit card numbers or other sensitive information. Data could also be accidentally discovered, such as cases of patient medical records found in dumpsters.
While transmitting data over the internet might seem less secure than keeping information in the office, the fact is EMR software is more secure than localized practice management software. Data is transmitted using a network encryption technology known as SSL. This encryption prevents even dedicated hackers from spying on your data.
Data is stored on remote servers protected by enterprise-level data security programs with more features than a standard desktop security suite. Passive protection such as firewalls and virus scanners are supplemented by active monitoring of network activity by certified computer network professionals.
Protection Against Disaster
The other, often overlooked aspect of data security involves data loss rather than data theft. A doctor's office, hospital or other medical provider that suddenly loses all patient information is in a world of trouble. The loss could come from a fire, computer virus, equipment failure or a natural disaster such as a flood or tornado.
Regular, verified backups are essential to safeguard information from loss. EMR software that keeps information on office computer can be backed up, but backups are an office task that often gets overlooked until after disaster strikes. When the data is stored on professionally-managed servers, regular and redundant backups are the norm. Even if the medical provider has a disaster, the information is safely stored in a server far away.
HIPAA Penalties Make Data Security More Important
Data security is important in any business, but in a highly-regulated industry like healthcare it becomes not just critical but a legal requirement. Medical providers who compromise sensitive patient data are subject to considerable penalties under federal law.
HIPAA has released guidelines for protection of electronic data in EMR software but these are only suggestions meant to assist data security professionals in creating unassailable data fortresses to protect patient privacy. A comprehensive security plan includes not just technical procedures such as the use of firewalls but physical (locks on computer rooms) and administrative (policies governing the use of devices like laptops and USB flash drives) ones.
Protecting patient privacy and medical office financial data is not a job for the amateur. EMR software which stores data on remote servers has the side benefit of enhanced data security, something no modern office should be without.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.massagebyben.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites 