Security - 12/22/2023

How Can I Protect
My Medical Data?

Tips & tricks you can use...

The safety of your medical data across the internet depends on several factors, including the security measures implemented by healthcare providers, medical institutions, and the platforms or services you use. Here are some key points to consider:

Encryption
Medical data should be transmitted and stored using strong encryption protocols. Look for websites and platforms that use HTTPS ('https://' in the URL) to protect data during transmission.

HIPAA Compliance
In the United States, healthcare providers and organizations are required to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA sets strict standards for the protection of patient data, both in transit and at rest.

Secure Access
Healthcare providers should have secure access controls in place, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access your medical records. Verifying this can be difficult, reviewing the Privacy Policy of each company that may store your data is a good place to start.

Two-Factor Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts. This is generally setup (if available) from the website of the company that is storing your data.

Regular Updates
Ensure that the software and systems used to store and transmit medical data are regularly updated to address security vulnerabilities. The Privacy Policy and/or Terms Of Use of each company that may store your data is a good place to start.

In 2023, a record number of healthcare data breaches occurred, impacting approximately 88 million individuals. This figure marked a substantial increase from the 34 million individuals affected in 2020 and more than quadrupled the number from 14 million in 2018.

Data Encryption at Rest
Data should also be encrypted when stored on servers or in databases to prevent unauthorized access.

Strong Passwords
Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts, and avoid using easily guessable information.

Data Breach Response Plan
Healthcare providers and institutions should have a plan in place to respond to data breaches and notify affected individuals promptly.

Privacy Policies
Review the privacy policies of healthcare providers and online platforms to understand how your data is handled and protected.

Personal Responsibility
Be cautious about sharing your medical data on unsecured websites or with untrusted individuals. Only provide your data to reputable sources.

Remember that no system is completely immune to security threats, and breaches can happen even with the best security measures in place. However, taking the above precautions can significantly reduce the risk of your medical data being compromised online.

It's also important to be aware of your rights regarding your medical data and to report any suspicious activity or potential breaches to the appropriate authorities and organizations.
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