Technology
Technology is one of the ways used to increase the security of patient information. Technology is used by many organizations to improve the security and confidentiality of patient information and data. Increased technology has both advantages and disadvantages. It enhances security and confidentiality and improves the accessibility of information. However, it increases the risk of information and data exposure to breaches and misuse.
Advantages
Increasing technology of patient confidentiality and data security has several advantages on healthcare organizations. It increases the security of patient information and data. Data is more secure compared to the use of traditional methods (Carlisle & Whitehouse, 2013). In addition, increased technology enhances the easy retrieval of information. Doctors can access patient data and information easily and quickly. In traditional methods, doctors searched patient information in files, a process that was slow and ineffective. Technology improves the organization of data and information. This helps reduce cases of insurance fraud and unnecessary lawsuits (Carlisle & Whitehouse, 2013). Some patients provide inaccurate information to insurance companies regarding the type of treatment provided by hospitals. However, with the use of technology, patients cannot provide false information. On the other hand, the quality of treatment has improved because doctors have easy and quick access to patient information and data (Liebler and McConnell, 2004). They have patients’ entire medical history in digital form and as such do not rely on information provided by patients.
Disadvantages
Increasing technology of patient confidentiality and data security has several disadvantages. First, it increases the risk of information and data misuse. Doctors may use patient information in illegal ways because it is easily accessible. Moreover, quick and easy accessibility increases the chances of healthcare data breaches (Liebler and McConnell, 2004). Increased technology introduces threats to data security because information and data are available in databases whose security may be compromised (Carlisle & Whitehouse, 2013). Many cases of data breaches have been cited in the past five years creating doubts regarding the efficiency of increased security on patient confidentiality and data security. In many cases, breaches occur in cases where information is sent without encryption. Increased technology results in increased costs of purchasing, installing, and maintaining technology gadgets (Liebler and McConnell, 2004). In addition, data breaches are very expensive. Breaches result from inadequate knowledge on ways of enhancing data security and the use of computer tablets and mobile phones to store data and information.
Conclusion
Many organizations use technology to improve patient confidentiality and data security. However, it has several advantages and disadvantages. It improves treatment, enhances access to information and data, and enhances the organization of data. However, it exposes data and information to medical breaches and exposes patient information to fraudsters.
References
Carlisle, G., & Whitehouse, D. (2013). EHealth: Legal, Ethical, and Governance Challenges. New York: Springer.
Liebler, J., and McConnell, C. (2004). Management principles for healthcare professionals. New York: Jones & Bartlett learning.