EHR Software Security Checklist

Today’s EHR software applications allow access to information at the push of a button. Who we let have access to that information and how to protect it has become a top priority. Proper preventative measures and understanding of cyber security will help keep you and your client’s information where it belongs.

Below are five steps that may help keep you and your data safe.

Evaluate your system

Regular examination of the current infrastructure and known vulnerabilities allows you to protect your system from outside incursion by relocating assets or fix the vulnerability. Scheduled tests of your systems’ vulnerabilities can provide new insights into trouble locations.

Keep Employees Informed

Many security breaches come from the inside, whether through malicious intent, inexperienced users, human error or carelessness. Users who are properly informed of safety measures and protocols are less likely to accidentally allow access or leave a system vulnerable.

Solid Foundation

Breaches can be avoided by making sure all passwords are unique, require inclusion of symbols or numbers, and avoid using default or common themes. Requirement of password rotation can eliminate risk of users having the same password for professional accounts and less secure personal use.

No Outside Devices

Limiting access of outside devices such as USB memory sticks will protect a system from infection from unfamiliar sources. Systems that have access outside the network should always be on guard against phishing emails that have suspicious links or attachments.

Constant Vigilance

Cyber security is an ever growing and constantly changing field. It is extremely important to have someone well versed in digital asset protection that is dedicated to staying up to date with the newest developments in digital threats and protections. It is important that your EHR software provider is always updating their software to keep intruders out.

Recent major breaches such as the Equifax breach this year show that even the most stalwart systems aren’t impenetrable. In the medical field, patient confidentiality is of the highest priority and all steps must be taken to ensure the protection of their private data. It is important to remember that often times a security breach isn’t as a result of software exploits but rather human error and phishing scams. Following these steps will help ensure that you can keep private information safe.