Safeguarding Your Practice: The Importance of Device Safe Harbor

.

Device security remains a critical consideration for practices, given the potential risks associated with unauthorized access to Protected Health Information (PHI).

Safe Harbor under HIPAA’s breach notification rule offers a shield against prolonged security incident investigations in the event of device loss or theft. Learn more about safe harbor here.

Securing Your Devices: Key Technical Measures

Under Safe Harbor provisions, if a device with PHI is lost or stolen, the data remains secure and indecipherable, mitigating the risk of a breach.

There are basic security measures that support Safe Harbor. Full device encryption, strong passcodes, and automatic locking mechanisms can ensure compliance and protect sensitive information effectively.

What About the Cloud?

There is a prevelant misconception that if your practice only uses cloud based systems and doesn’t rely on storing client files locally on computer hard drives or external hard drives that device security risks aren’t present. But this is just not the case. Device security measures are a necessary component of compliance and are applicable to your your practice regardless if you use a cloud based system. or not.

Despite the prevalence of cloud-based systems in modern practices, where PHI primarily resides, incidental storage of information on local devices remains a concern. From cached data to browsing histories, PHI fragments can inadvertently find their way onto devices, necessitating robust security measures. 

The good news is that the process is quite accessible, even for folks who don’t consider themselves “tech savvy.” With no significant financial investment required, practices can leverage resources and tutorials to implement necessary security measures efficiently. Step Three: Device Security, available through Practice Care Premium, is here to help you master this requirement.

Accessible, Affordable, Necessary 

We want to impart our most vital piece of guideance around device seruity:

Every device that is used to touch client info in any way needs to have these reasonable measures in place. 

Device security is essential and achievable for every practice. By embracing technical security measures and leveraging the right resources, you can confidently navigate the complexities of HIPAA compliance.

Ensuring device security is not only a compliance requirement but also a fundamental aspect of maintaining trust and integrity within your practice. By proactively implementing Safe Harbor measures, practices can navigate potential breaches with ease, safeguarding both client information and business continuity.

Take proactive steps today to secure your devices and pave the way for a safer, more resilient practice tomorrow. Join us on this journey towards Safe Harbor and unlock the peace of mind that comes with knowing your practice is fortified against security threats posed by unsecured and vulnerable devices.

Vulnerability is for your clients, not your devices or your practice. 

Learn more about device security:

This is Step 3: Devices  — of the PCT Way for optimizing & fortifying your practice.

Tackle the toughest piece of compliance, with minimal drama. Learn More.