Strong security measures are more important than ever as healthcare facilities deal with a concerning rise in violence and aggressiveness.
Strong security measures are more important than ever as healthcare facilities deal with a concerning rise in violence and aggressiveness. The once peaceful hallways of medical facilities, which have long been centers of treatment and recovery, are becoming more and more tarnished by hostile and disruptive incidents.
In confronting these challenges, healthcare settings are increasingly turning to wearable surveillance technologies. However, questions arise about whether the use of these devices for recording aligns with data protection regulations like HIPAA in the US and GDPR in Europe.
The right use of wearable cameras
Operating a body-worn camera is quite straightforward for the user. Should a staff member encounter a scenario where they perceive a threat to their own safety or that of a patient, they have the option to initiate recording by simply pressing a button.
In a
recent blog post, Paul Baratta, Manager for Industry Segment Development in the Americas for Axis Communications, pointed out that if the situation allows, it’s good practice for the camera wearer to inform those present that they have started recording. In an emergency, this might not be realistic, but this added declaration could assist a subsequent investigation.
“Moreover, this communication has the potential to de-escalate a developing situation, as aggressors might modulate their behavior when they know that their actions are being recorded,” Baratta said. “If required, informing a patient that recording has started could also help to ensure that the camera wearer has patient consent.”
Enhancing the reliability of video footage is possible by implementing authentication at the moment of recording. This process involves adding a cryptographic checksum to the video, which serves as evidence that the footage remains unaltered from the time it was captured. In cases where the video is needed for investigative purposes, this checksum acts as a testament to the authenticity of the recorded events.
“Once recording from a body-worn camera has stopped, the video immediately becomes part of your patient’s medical records, making it subject to privacy regulations,” Baratta said. “For this reason, it’s vital to understand local regulations and their impact on how video data from a wearable device will be stored and handled. Crucially, this also means it’s vital to choose the right wearable solution that supports data management according to the local regulations.”
HIPAA and GDPR
It's essential to uphold patient confidentiality, which requires healthcare providers to adhere to the data privacy laws applicable in their region.
“These regulations require patient information, including video and data captured by body-worn devices, to be handled according to certain procedures,” Baratta added. “This includes how the data is stored, how it is accessed, and who can view the records. Failure to comply can result in significant fines and reputational damage. Fortunately, there are straightforward measures that you can implement to protect data and enhance security.”
Robust security policies
Recording protected health information (PHI) doesn't automatically breach privacy unless it's disclosed improperly. To ensure compliance, it's crucial for organizations to establish thorough security measures. These should regulate access to patient records and safeguard data against cyber threats.
“These policies and procedures are only useful when all your staff have been trained and are familiar with how to follow them to remain compliant,” Baratta said. “These policies also act as a single source of truth which your staff members can reference to ensure behavior is consistent. Adhering to these policies will not only keep patient data safe, but it will support your facility in avoiding fines and lawsuits from failures to comply with regulations.”
Conclusion
In response to a notable surge in safety concerns, healthcare facilities are increasingly adopting wearable surveillance technologies. This trend, while aimed at bolstering security, must navigate the complex terrain of stringent privacy laws like HIPAA and GDPR.
These devices, appreciated for their potential to enhance safety, come with the critical responsibility of maintaining patient confidentiality. The challenge for healthcare institutions lies in seamlessly integrating this technology within the framework of existing privacy regulations. This task involves establishing comprehensive security policies, ensuring thorough staff training, and carefully selecting devices that align with the specific data management laws of their region.
The effectiveness of these surveillance tools extends beyond their capacity to record events; it is intrinsically linked to their ability to operate within a system that safeguards patient privacy. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve with technological innovations, the focus remains steadfast on creating a secure environment that prioritizes the privacy and dignity of patients and healthcare workers alike.