In a highly digitized world, cybersecurity is an issue for everyone— individuals and businesses alike. This is especially true in the health care space where sensitive medical information is at risk, and so it is crucial that audiologists take the necessary steps to ensure their practices—and patients—-are protected.
www.shutterstock.com. Cybersecurity, technology, privacy, medical information, HIPA, cyberattack, multi-factor authorization
“Try to imagine any part of the patient experience that doesn’t involve technology, from scheduling the appointment to medical tests to ordering prescriptions to electronic health records and billing,” said Josiah Dykstra, PhD, owner of Designer Security. “In audiology, even manual cerumen removal is often aided by electronic loupes for magnification or technology-assisted irrigation and suction.
“Cybersecurity is important because audiology requires technology, and technology brings risk,” he continued. “There is loss to a business when technology is unavailable or following a data breach. There is risk to a patient if their personal and sensitive health or financial information is compromised.”
