Health records are open to potential risks when health care providers and organizations use laptops, tablets, and smartphones to view or update patient records. However, research shows 
that only 44% of survey respondents and surveyed organizations encrypt the data on their mobile devices. And according to a recent study, less than half of the surveyed health care organizations discuss ways to protect mobile devices in privacy training.
Worried About Using a Mobile Device for
Work? Here's What to Do
To address the issue of data security in an increasingly mobile digital environment, HHS launched HealthIT.gov, which provides guidance and support to protect health information. Called “Your Mobile Device and Health Information Privacy and Security,” this site provides:
- Resources such as videos, fact sheets, and downloadable posters to educate health care providers and organizations about protecting and securing health information against potential risks
- Frequently asked questions that offer solutions to common issues, including how to respond when a mobile device is stolen and safeguarding health information while using public wifi
- Actions health care providers and organizations can take to determine their mobile device security needs and develop and implement appropriate device policies and procedures
Through education and simple measures health care providers and organizations can greatly reduce the risk to health information.
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