Healthcare is changing, and it’s not just because of modifications to policy. The very way that medicine is practiced is evolving every day thanks to the implementation of new technological strategies and methods employed by doctors, nurses, and other medical providers. The benefits of technology are massive and undeniable, but they are not without appropriate concerns regarding information security. So, what is the best way to overcome these obstacles for the safest and most efficient use of medical technologies such as behavioral health EHR software?
1. First and most importantly, protect your mobile devices! Medical professionals access patient information from their personal emails and smartphones more often than they realize. Many physicians even chart from a tablet or their home computers. Remember that it is essential to password protect and encrypt each device used to access these accounts. Also, consider using dual-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
2. Be careful of where you share information. Even if you choose to use email to communicate private health information with other providers, make sure that your connection is secure. Unfortunately, 65% of physicians share private patient information via text message, and a third of doctors use Whatsapp. Avoid these practices and be aware of how you are sharing information!
3. Be mindful. Yes, this may seem obvious, but it is incredibly easy to become lax in the way that you communicate information. Since many people are accustomed to habitually sharing anything and everything via electronic communication methods, it can be easy to forget that this isn’t always appropriate when discussing patients or other protected information. Think before you hit send.
Behavioral health EHR software is only the beginning of the numerous ways that technology will improve healthcare for both providers and patients. However, this new power does indeed come with responsibility, and it is crucial that medical professionals remember these obligations to privacy and security when collaborating and sharing information.
