Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Software has been widely implemented in hospitals and health systems across the USA. The robust technology solution not only streamlines clinical, administrative, and financial workflows but also enhances patient care and offers tight patient data security.
Top 3 Causes of Healthcare Data Breaches
There has been a rise in data breaches exposing patient health information and impacting patient trust. Before knowing how EHR Software systems secure patient data it is vital to know the main causes of healthcare data breaches:
- Hacking and IT Incidents
- Unauthorized Access/Disclosure
- Theft
Improved Data Security with EMR Software System
Data security can be considerably increased by Electronic Medical Records (EMR) software in several ways:
Access Control
EMR systems give users fine-grained control over who has access to patient data. Role-based access reduces the possibility of unwanted access by guaranteeing that only individuals with the proper authorization can see or alter particular data. This can greatly minimize the chances of unauthorized access which is one of the top causes of healthcare data breaches in today’s world.
Encryption
Encryption techniques by EHR Software vendors protect patient data while it is stored and transmitted between systems. Encryption secures patient health information by encoding it so unauthorized users cannot read it.
Authentication Measures
By requiring various forms of verification (passwords, PINs, or biometrics) to access the system, multi-factor authentication (MFA) reduces the possibility of illegal access and adds an extra layer of security.
Firewalls and Network Security
Protecting EMR Software systems from outside threats requires implementing strong firewalls and network security measures. These safeguards from health IT vendors aid in preventing external data breaches and unauthorized access.
The Importance of ONC-ATCB Certified EHR Software
ONC-ATCB (Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology – Authorized Testing and Certification Bodies) certification is critical for maintaining patient security in EMR software. This certification indicates that the software system meets the ONC’s stringent standards for functionality, interoperability, and, most critically, security.
A comprehensive testing process verifies an ONC-ATCB-certified EHR software’s capacity to safeguard patient data, uphold data integrity, and impose strict security protocols. Sensitive health information about patients, including medical histories, diagnoses, and treatments, is protected from breaches, illegal access, and other threats.
By ensuring that the Electronic Health Records system complies with established standards, certification lowers the chance of data breaches, fosters greater confidence between patients, healthcare providers, and organizations, and ultimately improves the general security and safety of patient health information.
ONC-ATCB Certified EMR Software Systems
It is critical to select an EHR system that is ONC-ATCB Certified to offer better security and make practices eligible for reimbursement programs. The following software vendors are certified:
