Improper handling of sensitive electronic health information can lead to data breaches

contrary to HIPAA provisions. Therefore, it is crucial to mitigate PHI risks using evidence-based

strategies. According to Seh et al. (2020), these strategies include:

Adopting IT policies that are in line with HIPAA guidelines

Increasing staff competency through training

Avoid the use of outdated infrastructure

Encrypt data when sharing electronically

Encourage the use of strong (numerical and special characters) passwords on

electronic devices

What Not to Do: Social Media

According to Seh et al. (2020), a Texas nurse lost her job due to PHI breaches.

Additionally, the average cost of these breaches is approximately $12 billion annually (Seh et al.,

2020). In order to avoid health data breaches, healthcare workers should:

Refrain from using social media while at work

Never take pictures with patients

Never post or discuss a patient on social media


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