Care providers handle vast amounts of sensitive personal information. This includes health records, personal details and care plans, all of which are important for delivering effective, person-centred care. However, access to personal data comes with the need for stringent data security measures. Providers must navigate a maze of regulations and adopt robust practices to ensure people’s data remains safe.
Data security breaches undermine confidence and can harm the people to whom the data relates. In addition, providers may face fines which could lead to loss of business. Providers are handling large volumes of data which is subject to strict rules and regulations regarding who should access it and how it should be handled. Therefore, it is important that providers fully understand their responsibilities as data controllers.
Frequently, providers mistakenly assume that data security is the sole responsibility of software suppliers. Therefore, providers might fail to ask software suppliers critical questions about cyber resilience and how data is handled. This can lead to greater exposure to risk for providers by failing to hold suppliers accountable for data processed on providers’ behalf.
Like all organisations processing personal information, care providers must comply with the UK Data Protection Act and The General Data Protection Regulation framework. The Care Quality Commission and the Care Inspectorate also set out rules about protecting people’s information. In addition, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides advice and guidance for businesses on how to stay compliant with the regulations. Adherence to these regulations is non-negotiable.
With the growing integration between health and care systems, ensuring secure data exchanges is paramount. Providers should verify that suppliers adhere to best practices for safe data sharing. The assured solutions list is a good starting point to check that suppliers have met the standards required for data sharing with health systems.
Public registries like the Information Assurance for Small and Medium Enterprises can help confirm suppliers’ Cyber Essential Plus credentials, providing an extra layer of assurance. Requiring suppliers to have an independent third-party review of their security practices and systems, such as penetration testing, is also recommended.
Many look to technology to prevent data security breaches. However, ensuring staff awareness of data security and providing ongoing appropriate training is often overlooked. It is important that staff feel confident about data security practices, how to recognise risks and how to report any data security incidents. Embedding a culture of shared responsibility for data security reinforces its importance.
Commonly used business tools, such as email, give malicious actors the opportunity to trick staff into inadvertently sharing data through phishing methods or the spread of malware via links. Training staff to recognise suspicious emails is key. Keeping passwords secure including the use of multi-factor authentication is another powerful and cost-effective tool.
Even with robust measures, breaches can occur. If they do, it is important to document all relevant information for investigation which may involve third parties like the ICO. Try to identify the cause and halt the breach immediately, assess the impact and use prompt and transparent actions and communication to minimise harm and maintain trust.
Regular audits are essential for identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance. Establishing a routine audit schedule demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding data and can help pre-empt potential breaches. Through audits, providers can identify areas for improvement and share best practices across their services. There are lots of training resources available via the Digital Care Hub, Skills for Care and eLearning For You.
Achieving operational efficiency does not mean compromising on cyber security, and providers should prioritise both. PASS by everyLIFE Technologies is the first supplier to meet all 14 NHS Digital Social Care Record standards. These standards, which include stringent requirements for data security, clinical safety and interoperability, ensure that providers can rely on solutions that are secure and operationally robust.
How have you enhanced data security in your setting? Leave a comment on this column or join the conversation to share your thoughts.
Taffy Gatawa is Chief Information and Compliance Officer at everyLIFE Technologies. Email: [email protected] Linkedin: ‘PASS by everyLIFE’.