Securing online communication protects you from unwanted exposure to various threats like identity theft. To do this, use a HIPAA email with end-to-end encryption to protect patients’ information when communicating with patients, colleagues, or your practice staff. Here are four reasons to have a HIPAA compliant email:
Safeguard Patient Confidentiality
Protecting sensitive medical information under your care requires you to invest in robust security for your communication channels. Platforms secured according to HIPAA regulations mean that all messages sent to patients are encrypted, making it harder for a third party to intercept protected health information (PHI). PHI includes names, addresses, social security numbers, and other information that can identify a patient.
HIPAA compliant communication services provide end-to-end encryption to make sure only the intended recipient can read the email. This gives health professionals a secure framework for sending patients appointment reminders or test results. The platform also allows providers to exchange patients’ health records with their team or between medical practices when consent has been given.
Support Communication
Emails provide a structured communication channel through which you can interact with fellow healthcare providers and patients. HIPAA email platforms allow you to exchange ideas and files on patient care or study results. You can also collaborate with doctors regarding diagnostic tests, treatment plans, and current medications.
Maintain Legal Compliance
Every healthcare institution must comply with regulations set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to safeguard patient privacy. Healthcare practices are obliged to undergo auditing exercises to verify their compliance level. An auditing phase may include an assessment of the communication network. With HIPAA secured email, you comply with the act’s regulations.
Maintaining legal compliance also helps you avoid legal suits that may follow a data breach. If your practice is found to be using non-compliant communication channels, the financial and reputation effects could be significant. It could also result in the closure of your practice due to negligence.
Minimize Chances of Data Breaches
Healthcare institutions are often targets for cybercriminals as they store personal information for many people. Failing to implement secure email protocols may make your practice a weak link, enabling criminals to access patient accounts at your facility and elsewhere. Data breaches can also be forms of malware that corrupt your practice’s medical records.
HIPAA compliant email helps minimize the chances of data breaches by offering multiple layers of security to protect communication. In addition to end-to-end encryption, secure email platforms have strong passwords and two-factor authentication, filters that remove phishing emails from your inbox, and message archival. Teams can track suspicious emails, adding further security measures as needed. You may also set access controls for certain emails to prevent unauthorized viewing or sharing of sensitive information.
Get a HIPAA Email for Your Practice
Adopting a HIPAA compliant email is an effective way to protect your practice against data breaches, secure PHI, and avoid legal repercussions. It allows you to communicate with other healthcare providers and patients while adhering to the standards. Some HIPAA email services also provide secure domain registration, document storage, and video conferencing solutions. Contact a HIPAA approved communications provider today to learn how to implement these tools in your practice.
