Risk is defined as the possibility that an event will occur that will adversely affect the achievement of objectives. Numerous internal and external risks can negatively affect the business intentions of management and the board. The healthcare industry is complex, and risk is everywhere.
The ability of healthcare organizations to defend against cyberthreats was a top priority entering 2020. As we close the book on the calendar year, the severity of these threats—and the frequency with which they are attacking healthcare organizations—has continued to increase at an alarming rate.
It’s time to circle back to the topic of remote access. Last month you were provided a checklist to send to your remote employees to assess workspace and workstation security. With new portable devices and web apps that support working from home, including transmitting large amounts of data with minimum resources, it’s important to share additional information that can help you protect your organization and your data.
Q: I am confused on the HIPAA rules for patients needing to show their driver’s license at the doctor’s office, hospital, or any other medical facility so the driver’s license can be scanned and put into their systems. I have refused to do that, but the facilities informed me that they were required by Medicare to scan the driver’s license. Is there a rule that clearly states that this is a requirement?
Your facility’s information security officer has ultimate responsibility for information security policies implemented at your facility. However, everyone has an important role to play in keeping information secure by following policies and procedures.