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Avoid the use of outdated infrastructure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