In the digital age of healthcare delivery, the need for appropriate medical device cybersecurity is pervasive. Unenforced password protocols, outdated data storage, unencrypted data, unsecured access to networks—these are just a few examples of distinct vulnerabilities medical devices can have.
The Augusta University Health system recently released a notice informing patients of an email breach. On July 31, 2018, investigators determined an unauthorized user may have had access to the personal and protected health information of approximately 417,000 individuals.
Q: While at an appointment, I noticed a receipt sticking out of a patient folder at the registration desk, and I could read the patient's name, last four digits of his or her Social Security number, and diagnosis/billing codes. Is this a HIPAA violation, since anyone walking by could read this information?
In its May newsletter on workstation security and the HIPAA Security Rule, OCR cited a 2015 settlement with Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington, Massachusetts, over a breach of PHI involving a laptop used in connection with a CT scanner.
The Office for Civil Rights’ (OCR) July Cybersecurity Newsletter, released last week, gave advice on disposing electronic devices and media to protect sensitive information like financial records and electronic personal health information.
Q: Is it permissible to take pictures of patients (including behavioral health) for identification purposes as a part of the registration process? Do the patients need to sign a consent form before their picture can be taken?
