Tips for cybersecurity in healthcare

Healthcare providers must prioritize cybersecurity measures to ensure the safety of patient data and maintain the integrity of their systems. This is due to the sensitive nature of patient information and the potential consequences of a data breach.

Establish a security culture

Employees must know the threats and vulnerabilities that can compromise patient information. By implementing policies, enforcing safeguards, and providing ongoing education and training, you can instill a security-minded mindset among your staff.

• Overcome the perception that "it can't happen to me" by providing education and training.
• Set a good example of information security practices at all levels of the organization.
• Make accountability and responsibility for information security core values.

Read more: How to establish a strong security culture in your practice 

IT maintenance

IT systems require regular maintenance to function correctly. Proper configuration management is essential to ensure the security of your systems. 

• Uninstall unnecessary software applications to minimize vulnerabilities.
• Configure software properly during installation.
• Regularly update software to address newly discovered vulnerabilities.
• Perform operating system maintenance to remove outdated information and settings.

Protect mobile devices

Mobile devices are integral to healthcare organizations but also present unique security challenges. Due to their mobility, these devices are more susceptible to loss or theft, making patient data vulnerable. It is necessary to take extra precautions to protect mobile devices and their information.

• Implement strong authentication and access controls for mobile devices.
• Enable password protection and encryption for laptops and handheld devices.
• Avoid transmitting electronic health information across public networks without encryption.

Read also: HIPAA and mobile devices 

Use a firewall

A firewall is a significant component of a healthcare organization's cybersecurity infrastructure. It acts as a barrier between your internal network and external threats, preventing unauthorized system access. 

• Use a firewall to prevent intrusions and threats from outside sources.
• Configure the firewall properly to protect your network.
• Consider using a hardware firewall for larger practices with a local area network.

Related: What is a firewall and does your healthcare business need one? 

Anti-virus software

Viruses and malware pose significant risks to healthcare organizations. Installing and regularly updating anti-virus software can help protect healthcare organizations from cybersecurity threats. Anti-virus software should be updated to stay ahead of emerging viruses and malware. Recognize the symptoms of a computer virus infection, such as system crashes or unwanted web pages, and take immediate action if an infection is suspected.

Read more: What is antivirus software?

Plan for the unexpected

Disasters can strike any time, threatening the security and availability of your systems. Having a plan in place protects healthcare records and assets.

• Create reliable backups and test them regularly.
• Store backup media safely, away from the main system.
• Develop a clear procedure for accessing backups and restoring functionality in an emergency.

Control access to protected health information

 Strong authentication and access control systems ensure that only authorized individuals can access sensitive data. Consider using role-based access control to determine what information each staff member can access.

Strong passwords

Passwords are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your systems. Use strong passwords that are not easily guessed and include a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. Regularly changing passwords further enhances security.

Read also: Increase online security with a robust password policy 

Control physical access

Securing physical access to your devices is as important as protecting your data electronically. Limiting access to devices and ensuring they are stored safely reduces the risk of theft or tampering. Consider storing servers containing electronic health information in locked rooms accessible only to authorized staff.

• Secure devices in locked rooms and manage physical keys.
• Restrict the ability to remove devices from secure areas.
• Protect servers from physical hazards like fire and water.

Read more: The importance of physical security in HIPAA compliance 

Limit network access

Controlling network access protects systems from unauthorized individuals. Be cautious when using wireless networking tools, as they can expose your network to security threats. Configure wireless routers to operate in encrypted mode and restrict access to authorized devices only.

• Secure wireless networks by using encryption and limiting access.
• Be cautious of peer-to-peer applications that can introduce security vulnerabilities.
• Prohibit casual access to the network by visitors and unauthorized devices.

See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide