Replacing Pagers Used for Doctors with Secure Messaging
Secure messaging works by a private communications network being created for a healthcare organization. Authorized users gain access to the network via secure messaging apps that can be downloaded onto a desktop computer or mobile device. Using the HIPAA-compliant messaging apps, doctors can receive messages and send replies, or access documents and share images, with all the speed and convenience of mobile technology – but with no risk to the integrity of PHI.
To further ensure the integrity of PHI, all activity on the network is monitored. Access reports and audits are automatically produced to assist administrators with the preparation of risk assessments, while safeguards prevent PHI being accidently or maliciously transmitted outside of the network. Message recall and PIN-lock features also prevent unauthorized access to PHI if a user´s mobile device is lost or stolen.
In 2012, the Manhattan Research/Physician Channel Adoption Study found that 87% of doctors used a smartphone or tablet in their workplace. As the secure messaging apps work across all devices and operating systems, replacing pagers used for doctors with secure messaging would not cause any disruption, and it would also eliminate the risk of doctors communicating PHI through unsecure channels of communication such as email and SMS.