For healthcare organizations looking to improve their overall data security practices, meeting the requirements for HIPAA compliance is a good place to start, according to a recent Dark Reading report.
By working to adhere all aspects of security to HIPAA's requirements, an organization is more than likely going to implement measures that will protect sensitive information.
"HIPAA compliance is one of the biggest challenges healthcare IT organizations face -- but it also could be an opportunity to advance your security agenda," contributors Diana Kelley and Ed Moyle wrote for Dark Reading.
For example, an organization should begin with a risk assessment and security system audit - both encouraged by HIPAA. This due diligence will allow professionals to identify weak spots within the organizations network and make the process of patching such holes much easier.
Also, greater collaboration between compliance and security teams will help each side accomplish individual goals.
According to a recent report from EHRBloggers, HIPAA compliance is an ongoing task for all healthcare organizations. It's important they don't work to meet compliance one time and believe their responsibilities end there.
