Securing data, protecting patient privacy: the dual challenge for South African healthcare
Ask any patient what the most pressing need is in hospitals and they’ll probably say that the food could be better. Ask hospital managers, administrators, and IT teams though, and they’ll most likely talk about the need to protect patient privacy while at the same time effectively monitoring them to ensure patient and their data security.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the delicate balance between privacy rights, security measures, and the delivery of quality healthcare services is crucial. With the advent of legislation like the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA; which includes the global Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements) the need for robust security measures has never been more pressing, particularly due to the sensitive nature of medical records. However, this should not come at the expense of patient care or the infringement of privacy rights.
The healthcare sector in South Africa faces numerous challenges, particularly regarding data security. The average cost of a data breach for a South African organisation is estimated at a staggering R49.45 million, with the healthcare industry being particularly vulnerable. Globally, healthcare data breaches are on the rise, with significant financial implications and risks to patient privacy. This underscores the critical need for proactive security measures to safeguard sensitive patient information.
Furthermore, advancements in surveillance technology are improving how healthcare facilities monitor patient activity while ensuring POPIA compliance. Traditional CCTV systems are being supplemented and even supplanted with radar-based cameras, enabling discreet monitoring without compromising patient privacy. These innovations allow for effective fall detection and movement tracking without invasive video surveillance.
“The intersection of technology, privacy, and security in the healthcare sector presents both challenges and opportunities. It’s important to partner with providers who understand the nuances facing South African healthcare, particularly those who know how to deal with legacy systems as these are prone to security vulnerabilities. At Itec, we can integrate with existing workflows and systems without compromising on security. In turn allowing healthcare facilities to function more effectively and profitably,” says Esti Kilian, Head of Product at managed business services provider Itec SA.
“We take a consultative approach towards aligning technology with business objectives. When it comes to healthcare, we understand that patient safety and data privacy need to be balanced with solutions that support the business infrastructure behind the patient care and data,” says Kilian.
