HIMSS report analyzes information security
The Health Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) recently released a report addressing the state of security of patient information in U.S. hospitals. HIMSS Analytics surveyed 263 senior information technology (IT) executives, chief security officers, and health information managers for the report.
A survey of respondents revealed the following:
- A lack of awareness concerning the frequency and seriousness of identity theft exists. Causes include factors such as regulatory loopholes, an emphasis on privacy instead of fraud or malicious behavior, a lack of understanding of the true cost and impact of a breach.
- The health care industry needs complex information security systems that address a hierarchy of needs. Consequently, needs more directly related to patient treatment often overshadow resources devoted to patient data security.
- The larger a facility is, the greater its risk of a breach.
Security education for staff members is only one element of an effective security policy, so organizations must ensure that they address their security policy more broadly. This includes monitoring employee compliance and enforcing security policies.
The report, titled "2008 HIMSS Analytics Report: Security of Patient Data," was commissioned by Kroll Fraud Solutions, a global risk consulting company. It may be viewed on the Kroll Fraud Solutions web site: www.krollfraudsolutions.com. Click on "2008 HIMSS Analytics Report: Security of Patient Data" in the center of the home page to be directed to a page that gives you access to the report.
The Health Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) recently released a report addressing the state of security of patient information in U.S. hospitals. HIMSS Analytics surveyed 263 senior information technology (IT) executives, chief security officers, and health information managers for the report.You have reached your article limit for the month. Subscribe now to access this article plus other member-only content.
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