Ask healthcare professionals about safety culture, and they will know precisely what you are speaking of. However, security culture may not be as well known to these individuals, but it is just as important. Every healthcare organization must safeguard patient data in a digital world.
Organizations may do so through online fax services, which are safer than email and instant messaging programs. However, as health technology advances, online faxing may not be enough to secure this data. The organization must create a robust safety culture in every area to protect the massive volume of health information.
Any organization that fails to do so is at higher risk of a data breach. Patients may be harmed, and the organization may be fined and punished. It may also be exposed to liability and suffer a loss of reputation. The organization must look at the broad picture to avoid these issues rather than focusing on specific areas. How can the organization build and sustain a strong security culture?
- Physical security and cybersecurity must be a part of the organization’s strategic planning. Funds must be budgeted for security measures, and initiatives need to be implemented for risk management.
- Leaders have to be part of the security planning and decision-making to ensure they are on board. Workers won’t be engaged if leaders don’t support the security culture. A strong security culture starts at the top, and management must lead by example.
- Every healthcare organization needs a chief information security officer to implement security processes and address issues. This officer may have personnel to assist with these tasks, but they remain in charge.
- All employees must understand that security is a core value of the organization, and they will be held responsible and accountable for their actions.
- The organization must have written policies regarding data confidentiality, privacy, and information security so that all employees know the expectations. The organization must share possible consequences for standards violations when drafting these policies.
- Employees should be surveyed to learn their feelings and beliefs about security issues. Organization leaders may be surprised by what employees don’t know and can use the information gathered to improve the safety culture.
- The organization must invest in new technology that will increase security.
- Before partnering with other companies, the organization must perform due diligence to ensure the potential partners understand the importance of safeguarding patient data. Other options should be considered if a company’s security standards don’t align with the healthcare organization’s security culture.
- Regular assessments are needed to uncover potential security vulnerabilities. When a weakness is found, it must be addressed using practical solutions. Physical and technology-based safeguards can reduce the risk of security breaches.
- Human factors must be considered when safeguarding patient data. Humans make errors, and a simple mistake can lead to a security breach. Phishing emails are an excellent example of how an error can have far-reaching consequences.
- Every healthcare organization needs an incident response plan in case a disaster strikes. If the company is a victim of a cyberattack or data breach, employees must know what steps to take to help recover.
- Ongoing training is essential for all employees of an organization, including upper management. When individuals are aware of the latest threats, they are more vigilant. Organizations should offer different training methods to ensure employees remain engaged and aware. When employees know relevant touchpoints, they will change their behaviors over time, which benefits the organization.
Healthcare organizations cannot overemphasize the importance of securing sensitive data. One breach can lead to its downfall. Using the measures outlined above, online faxing, and other services can help an organization achieve its goal of creating a security culture that works for all.
