BYOD and Healthcare App Security

Posted: Mar 06, 2014
Share This:

As technology evolves so does the way in which we work; Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is one such example. With tablet and smartphone adoption rates having increased rapidly over the last five years more and more individuals are crying out to use their devices in the workplace. Embracing the shift towards a mobile workforce some employers have quickly adapted by establishing a BYOD policy and allowing employees to use their own devices for work purposes.

The healthcare industry in particular has recorded a significant uplift in BYOD adoption as shown by an industry report by Jackson & Coker, with four out of five physicians regularly incorporating mobile devices into their daily work routine. Cloud technology is what facilitates a wide range of tasks from general day-to-day admin to transferring critical documents across departments. And with rapid uptake of BYOD, cloud technology is most certainly set to be an intrinsic element moving forwards for individuals and organizations statewide.

With mobile apps facilitating a wide range of tasks from general day-to-day admin to transferring critical documents across departments cloud technology is most certainly set to be an intrinsic element moving forwards for individuals and organizations statewide.

But what about data security?
With sensitive information routinely being stored and shared questions around cloud security are undoubtedly going to be raised. In the healthcare industry this becomes even more pertinent with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulating and enforcing the utmost security of Protected Health Information (PHI).

For healthcare professionals, therefore, it is crucial that security is the primary consideration for cloud-based applications and mobile apps. From lost or stolen devices to a lack of understanding around security, a multitude of threats exist within the modern BYOD work culture.

For those in healthcare looking to streamline manual document sharing processes without compromising security, cloud fax is an ideal solution. However, it is vital that when opting for BYOD and third party apps professionals choose applications that are HIPAA compliant.

With all kinds of personal information from names, to addresses to complex medical conditions and treatments it is imperative healthcare professionals are vigilant in choosing a provider that cannot only provide excellent functionality but also safeguard against data breaches.

Here are five tips for healthcare professionals and organizations for remaining HIPAA compliant with cloud-based internet fax;

  • Ensure devices are password protected
  • Set up and verify recipients or groups of contacts to prevent erroneous faxes
  • Get access to an audit trail for all activity
  • Determine which devices and operating system you or your employees will use
  • Educate those with BYOD about the risks and how to prevent them.

For more about Sfax and HIPAA click here.