Link: USA.gov's successful shift to cloud computing could become the model - Nextgov.
Cloud-computing? Security? Privacy? Costs? According to a study by Forrester the General Services Administration has "achieved significant cost savings by transitioning" [to the cloud] - see the above link. For more information on cloud-computing in general and for medical offices, visit Office on the Cloud.
The cloud does provide value and reduce costs for medical offices desiring to implement new software for electronic records, and to engage patients and families in their healthcare options.
Security for EHRs? Existing technology standards for authentication and encryption exist for other industries and can serve the healthcare industry in a similar fashion.
Privacy for EHRs? Secure log-in and appropriate use and disclosure of personal health information can also be achieved through the various standards that exist elsewhere.
Costs? Rather than investing in-house hardware, software and technical support, in addition to implementation costs, the cloud provides significant costs advantages.
For more information on technology security and privacy issues related to EHRs and their implementation, sign up for the FREE HITECH/HIPAA Compliance Newsletter or visit the online HIPAA Survival Guide where the new HITECH/HIPAA Security and Privacy Rules are more fully explained. Also, check out a FREE EHR Checklist.
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