Securing Critical Healthcare Data

Data security in healthcare is imperative. As a software company that develops software in the healthcare industry we are always aware of our role in securing critical healthcare data as we’re tasked with ensuring our client’s data management practices meet the highest standards of security and compliance. This post outlines the key considerations organizations need to take into account when selecting a software company to manage your sensitive data (healthcare or otherwise) securely.

The Imperative of Data Security

Let’s take organ transplant data. This data encompasses a wealth of sensitive information—patient histories, donor records, and intricate waitlist algorithms. A breach in this data doesn’t just risk financial penalties; it jeopardizes patient trust and can disrupt life-saving procedures. Therefore, when you are evaluating potential software partners, you must prioritize those with a proven track record in implementing robust security measures to keep this type of data safe.

Key Security Features to Demand

1. End-to-End Encryption:
   Look for solutions that offer comprehensive encryption, both in transit and at rest. This all encompassing encryption can be achieved by utilizing a combination of SQL Server’s Always Encrypted feature for database encryption and TLS certificates for web facing front ends. When properly implemented, these features provide powerful encryption methods to keep sensitive data safe in your database and on the web.
2. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):
   Ensure the system allows granular control over data access, limiting what certain users can see based on their roles and responsibilities.
3. Secure Data Sharing:
   Make sure solutions facilitate secure data exchange between team members, healthcare providers, other organizations and external vendors. One way that we have achieved this functionality is by creating secure and encrypted file transfer sites to allow organizations to share sensitive data in a safe and secure manner.
4. Compliance with Regulatory Standards:
   The software being developed or integrated must adhere to HIPAA, GDPR, and other relevant healthcare data protection regulations.
5. Audit Trails and Monitoring:
   Comprehensive logging of all data access and modifications is crucial for maintaining transparency and detecting potential security breaches.

Technical Implementation Considerations

When evaluating a software company’s technical approach, consider the following:

1. Database Security:
   If your organization uses SQL Server to store data, look for expertise in implementing SQL Server’s Always Encrypted feature. This separates data ownership from data management, crucial for maintaining control over sensitive information.
2. Application-Level Security:
   A secure database is just one level of protection. Software vendors should demonstrate proficiency in secure coding practices as well. Our software is developed primarily in the Microsoft stack, particularly in .NET environments. This includes proper use of the Data Protection APIs in ASP.NET for securing cookies and tokens.
3. Key Management:
   Ensure software companies utilize robust key management solutions like Azure Key Vault, which integrates well with both SQL Server and .NET applications.
4. Performance Optimization:
   While encryption enhances security, it can impact performance. There is always a trade off when you add more layers of security and it is always worth it. It’s important to have strategies to minimize these impacts through thoughtful schema design, query optimization and architecture decisions.

Evaluating Potential Partners

When selecting a software company to manage your healthcare data:

1. Assess their experience in healthcare or particularly in handling sensitive data.
2. Review their security implementation portfolio, focusing on projects involving end-to-end encryption and compliance with healthcare regulations.
3. Inquire about their development practices, ensuring they follow secure coding standards and regularly update their security measures.
4. Evaluate their ability to provide ongoing support or have maintenance plans put into place to ensure regular security audits and swift responses to emerging threats.

Conclusion

Selecting the right software partner for managing sensitive healthcare data is a critical decision. The chosen company must demonstrate not just technical proficiency, but a deep understanding of the unique challenges in healthcare data security.

By prioritizing robust encryption, regulatory compliance, and secure data sharing capabilities, we can ensure that our systems remain secure, efficient, and trustworthy.

Contact us to schedule a comprehensive introductory call to see how we can help secure your data and infrastructure.