However convenient mobile devices may be in this industry, mobile devices need to be carefully managed to avoid creating a HIPAA security risk. Listed below are some helpful tips to take into consideration to ensure you are always remaining HIPAA compliant while using mobile devices:
It is critical to use encryption to make mobile devices more secure. This will require more than a simple password. Encryption for email programs is needed to ensure a message cannot be read until after it has been transmitted to the provider’s device.
All communication between patient and provider should be recorded into the patient’s medical record in the interest of accuracy. Text messages and other informal methods of communication should be entered in order to assure records are complete.
Make all patients aware, and get their consent before communicating using mobile devices. This is especially important if there is a chance the information being shared is unsecure.
Often times, communication from mobile devices is full of shorthand, abbreviations, and spelling and grammar errors. Avoid this as it can result in seeming unprofessional, and even create malpractice liability in worst case scenarios.
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