Health records are sensitive since they contain confidential patient information. Due to the confidentiality of healthcare data, the United States government enacted the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Healthcare professionals must adhere to the provisions of HIPAA during the storage and transmission of patient information. They must send protected health information (PHI) using a HIPAA compliant email system.
How Does a HIPAA Compliant Email Work?
Secure internet protocols should be in place when sending confidential health records as information transmitted online can be at risk of hacking. Strict cyber security measures should be in place when sending a HIPAA compliant email. HIPAA systems provide watertight security measures for PHI in the following ways:
Encrypting Emails
HIPAA compliant systems encrypt emails for safety and confidentiality. The entire email is encrypted to limit access to only healthcare professionals. The contents of the email are also encrypted. These include text messages and any attachments within the email. Encryption protocols must be strong enough to inhibit any form of unauthorized access to healthcare data by hackers. Using two-step encryption provides extra security to PHI.
Limiting Access to Emails
Health records should only be accessible to healthcare professionals and their patients. HIPAA email systems provide measures to restrict access to this information. HIPAA compliant emails use authentication systems that prohibit unauthorized access to patient health information.
Maintaining the Integrity of Data
PHI must reach the intended recipient in its original state. Any alteration of health information constitutes a breach of data that compromises its integrity. HIPAA email systems have measures that protect medical records from access and alteration. Encrypting patient data helps to provide protection and maintains its integrity.
Training Healthcare Providers
Medical practitioners should know about handling HIPAA systems. Healthcare facilities should train all healthcare workers to use HIPAA compliant systems. Training should cover areas of cyber security, data safety, and authentication. The staff must also commit to maintaining confidentiality of PHI at all times.
Both healthcare providers and patients should protect confidential emails. The protection can be enhanced by educating patients on how to access emails securely to avoid hacking. Protection of emails on both ends verifies that medical information remains confidential.
Hosting Email Systems on Secure Servers
A medical institution should have secure servers for hosting HIPAA systems. If the institution does not have servers, it can outsource from another credible institution. Outsourcing computer services is ideal since you acquire expert services. Medical professionals can also focus on providing health services to patients without worrying about the security of their email systems.
Become HIPAA Compliant for Secure PHI Transmission
HIPAA email systems add an extra layer of security to patient health information. In case you can’t host large servers in your institution, you can outsource HIPAA services from another organization. Outsourcing allows you to secure patient data while complying with HIPAA rules and regulations. Adopt HIPAA compliant systems to send emails securely and protect the integrity of your patient information. Start your search today for a reliable and secure third-party vendor.
