6 Mobile Device Security Tips for Oklahoma Home Healthcare Companies

6 Mobile Device Security Tips for Oklahoma Home Healthcare Companies

6-Mobile-Device-Security-Tips-for-Oklahoma-Home-Healthcare-CompaniesOklahoma City home healthcare companies are utilizing mobile technology to facilitate care delivery and decision making. Mobile device security plays an important role.

The use of mobile devices not only allows healthcare professionals to access the most up to date information to deliver better patient care but reduces the paper process, therefore, increasing productivity and compliance.

The list of benefits that mobile devices provide for healthcare professionals is lengthy. Although beneficial, mobile devices do pose a risk as they store a vast amount of sensitive patient information.

Keeping this information secure is a top priority. That being said, below are six tips that can aid home healthcare companies in maintaining mobile device security.

  1. Encryption should be installed and enabled. This protects health information that is both stored on the device and information that is sent. When data is encrypted, it is protected against access by unauthorized users.
  2. Activation of remote wiping and remote disabling. In the event that a mobile device is lost or stolen, action can be taken remotely to either erase or lock stored data.
  3. File sharing applications should be disabled. This prevents unauthorized users from accessing data or infecting your mobile device with a virus or malware.
  4. A firewall should be enabled. When a firewall is enabled, all incoming and outgoing connection attempts are analyzed and are permitted or blocked, securing sensitive patient information.
  5. Security software needs to be enabled and updated on a regular basis. This protects mobile devices from malicious programs. Examples of mobile device security software include anti-malware, anti-theft, anti-virus and firewall software. Regular updates ensure mobile devices are equipped with the latest safety tools.
  6. Train all employees on mobile device security. This is one of the most valuable tips for home healthcare companies. With all safeguards in place, sensitive patient information is not adequately protected unless all users fully understand the importance of following and enforcing those safeguards. Training on safety awareness should follow a company’s policies and procedures for security and be delivered to employees in a clear, easy to comprehend manner. Employees need to understand the risks involved with the use of mobile devices and their role in securing them. Employee education should include password management, the prohibited transmission of patient health information over open networks, the use of remote or public computers to download patient information and, mobile device/media protection.

 

Bottom Line

Mobile devices have become an essential tool for healthcare professionals in numerous patient care settings. Although they enhance patient care, should a breach in security occur, the consequences could be devastating. Mobile device security needs to be a priority for Oklahoma City healthcare professionals and organizations.

 

What are some other practices that could be utilized by home healthcare companies to maintain the security of mobile devices? Let us know your thoughts in the Comments box below.

 

And to follow up on the tips introduced in this article, be sure to download your free Information Technology Guide for Oklahoma City Home Health Care Organizations.

 

 


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