Ensuring EHR Data Security

Best Practices for Using a Cloud-Based EHR Across Multiple Networks

As clinicians appreciate the convenience and flexibility provided by cloud-based Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, ensuring data security takes on even greater significance. This is particularly crucial when accessing patient information on multiple networks, as the ease-of-use must be balanced with robust security measures.

In this blog post, we’ll explore essential safety measures that clinicians should consider when utilizing a cloud-based EHR on multiple networks, ensuring the privacy and integrity of patient data.

1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

   To secure patient data and meet privacy regulations, implement an EHR system with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security to your EHR login, greatly reducing unauthorized access risk. It requires an additional verification step, like sending a unique code to your mobile, email, or an Authentication app. With MFA, only authorized users can access the EHR system, even if login credentials are compromised. Prioritize EHR systems with robust MFA capabilities to strengthen data security and privacy compliance.

2. Keep Software and Devices Up to Date:

   Keeping your software and devices updated is vital, especially for an EHR system. Choose an EHR provider that focuses on regular security updates and patches. These updates include important fixes for known vulnerabilities, ensuring your EHR system remains strong against evolving cyber threats. Selecting an HR solution with ongoing security updates provides peace of mind, knowing your patient data is safeguarded by the latest security protocols.

   Additionally, ensure that your devices are password protected and equipped with the latest security measures.

3. Stay Vigilant Against Phishing Attempts:

   Public networks can be an attractive target for cybercriminals attempting to steal login credentials or sensitive information through phishing attempts. Stay cautious and train yourself and your staff to identify phishing emails. In addition, avoid clicking suspicious links and providing personal or login information to unsolicited requests.

4. Lock Your Computer

   Locking your computer prevents unauthorized access to sensitive medical information and prevents anyone from tampering with your files in your absence. This simple act becomes even more important in shared or public environments, where the risk of unauthorized access is higher. Locking your computer screen not only safeguards sensitive medical information but also preserves your professional reputation and prevents potential financial losses.

5. Keep Account Information Secure

   To protect your patients’ data, follow two important rules: don’t share your account information and avoid using the same passwords for different websites. Sharing sensitive details like usernames, passwords, or security answers can allow unauthorized access and jeopardize patient data. Similarly, reusing passwords across multiple sites increases the risk of a security breach. Keep your account information private and create unique passwords for each website to stay secure.

6. Educate and Train Your Staff

   Ensure data security by educating and training your staff on best practices for using a cloud-based EHR on various networks. Conduct regular training sessions covering topics like identifying phishing attempts, secure internet usage, and password hygiene. This collective effort empowers your staff to maintain a secure environment.

Since cloud-based EHR systems are a necessary component of a clinician’s day-to-day, it is essential to prioritize data security when accessing patient information on public networks. By implementing measures such as multi-factor authentication, and staying vigilant against phishing attempts, clinicians can significantly enhance the safety of their cloud-based EHR usage.

Remember, when it comes to data security, proactive measures are the key to safeguarding patient information and maintaining the trust placed in healthcare professionals.