Healthcare practices may need to implement strong security measures, like HIPAA compliant email, for sharing Protected Health Information (PHI). Patient PHI protected under HIPAA includes social security numbers, birthdates, addresses, and treatment documentation. Healthcare professionals, such as family doctors, dentists, and therapists, can rely on the end-to-end encryption of HIPAA compliant email platforms to protect patient information. Here is more information about secure email solutions and how they can help your healthcare practice and patients:
What Is End-To-End Encryption?
End-to-end encryption is one of many security features for private email systems. It allows healthcare professionals to securely send sensitive information to their patients or colleagues. This service protects against cyber attacks and other malicious malware threats. Medical information is valuable and often sells for higher prices on the black market than other personal documentation. Healthcare practices have the option to incorporate HIPAA compliant email systems to keep patient data safe during online communication.
How Is Patient Information Protected?
A healthcare email platform with end-to-end encryption confirms that sensitive information is unreadable. It also prevents unauthorized access by individuals attempting a breach. A reliable HIPAA compliant email service may use Transport Layer Security (TLS) to further protect against hackers. If unauthorized access to a secure email occurs, TLS will scramble the message to protect the information. Healthcare email platforms may also include password-protected features, and out-of-network responses will be processed securely by the software system.
Can Emails Protect Other Files and Attachments?
A secure cloud server with timed access or password protection options can help secure file attachments. HIPAA compliant services allow you to upload documents to your email message with a secure link for downloading. Size restrictions won’t affect the message, and unauthorized users can’t gain access to sensitive documentation. A good service provider will provide features to keep clean emails in your inbox, such as anti-spam software that blocks unwanted malware-infected emails. Encrypted systems also prevent data loss, protecting patient information and preventing innocent mistakes from turning into legal consequences.
What Other Features Provide PHI Protection?
HIPAA compliance extends beyond email applications to file storage, telehealth, administrative tasks, provider notes, and more. When telehealth providers are discussing patient information, video conferencing and screen sharing can be protected by HIPAA compliant systems. Virtual team meetings and private appointments with patients are protected against hackers using the same end-to-end encryption. Messages are stored in backup servers and can be accessed if the original information is lost or deleted. Healthcare practices are further protected from legal consequences with proof of delivery and email restoration features.
HIPAA Compliant Email Service Solutions
Using email platforms with end-to-end encryption and TLS will add layers of security to protect sensitive patient information against hackers. Security measures also protect collaboration between healthcare organizations and professionals. Training your facility staff on email security can prevent cyberattacks and hackers from targeting sensitive information. Providers can also select email platforms with two-factor authentication to add more protection to PHI. Contact a HIPAA compliant online communication service today to discuss how you can protect your practice’s email systems and patient information.