2 Examples of Information Assurance Strategies in the Healthcare Industry

Introduction

Information assurance is crucial in the healthcare industry, mainly because the sector handles sensitive data that can lead to significant harm if it falls into the wrong hands. Information assurance strategies are put in place to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data in healthcare. This article aims to discuss two practical examples of information assurance strategies in the healthcare industry.

Example 1: Encryption

Encryption is a technique used to protect sensitive data by converting it into a code that only authorized parties can interpret. In the healthcare industry, patient data is sensitive and must be protected from unauthorized access. Encrypted data can be stored in cloud-based storage, and healthcare organizations can use encryption to protect data in transit.

One example of a healthcare organization that makes use of encryption is Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic is a world-renowned healthcare organization that has made significant strides in adopting security measures to protect patient data. Mayo Clinic makes use of data encryption to secure patient data that is stored on mobile devices and hardware. The organization also ensures that access to data is only granted to authorized personnel.

Example 2: Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication is a security measure that adds an extra layer of protection to an account by requiring an extra login credential. For instance, healthcare organizations can make use of two-factor authentication to ensure that only authorized personnel access patient data. Two-factor authentication makes it difficult for an external threat actor to gain access to data since they require two login credentials to access the database.

One example of a healthcare organization making use of two-factor authentication for account protection is Allscripts. Allscripts is a healthcare IT company that develops software solutions for the healthcare industry. The company makes use of two-factor authentication to ensure that only authorized personnel gain access to sensitive information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, information assurance strategies are essential in the healthcare industry to ensure that patient data is protected from unauthorized access. Encryption and two-factor authentication are examples of practical information assurance strategies that healthcare organizations can put in place. Organizations can also make use of other technologies such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems and antivirus software to secure data.

References

• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Protecting Your Data. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/about-mayo-clinic/quality-innovation-technology/mayo-clinic-care-network/resources/protecting-your-data
• Allscripts. (2021). Allscripts Two-Factor Authentication. Available at: https://www.allscripts.com/solutions/integration-and-interoperability/platform-services/two-factor-authentication