4 Reasons Why You Should Care About Your Data Privacy and Data Security

In our digitized world, it's important to be aware of how your personal data is being used. This is especially true when it comes to your health information. Patient privacy and data security should be top priorities for everyone, regardless of whether you're a patient, medical professional, or healthcare organization. Here are four reasons why you should care about your data privacy and security.

You have a right to privacy

Although not every country has laws specifically protecting patient privacy, the right to privacy is enshrined in many national constitutions. In the United States, the HIPAA Privacy Rule gives patients the right to inspect and receive copies of their health information, as well as the right to request corrections to errors in their records. If your rights are violated, you can file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights.

Personal health information is sensitive

Health information is some of the most sensitive information there is. It can include details about your mental and physical health, sexual history, genetic makeup, and more. This information can be used to discriminate against you, blackmail you, or embarrass you. That's why it's so important that this information is kept confidential and secure.

Medical identity theft is on the rise

Medical identity theft happens when someone steals your personal health information in order to submit false claims to insurance companies or obtain free medical care. According to a report from the World Privacy Forum, 2.3 million Americans were victims of medical identity theft in 2014 alone. This crime can have a devastating effect on your finances, your credit score, and your ability to get healthcare in the future.

Data breaches are becoming more common—and more costly

A data breach occurs when unauthorized individuals gain access to protected health information (PHI). These breaches can happen in a variety of ways, such as through hacking or theft of electronic devices containing PHI. In 2017, there were 1,579 reported data breaches involving over 172 million records.

Patient privacy and data security are serious issues that deserve our attention—whether we're patients ourselves or working in the healthcare industry. By understanding the importance of these issues and taking steps to protect ourselves, we can help create a safer and more secure environment for everyone involved in healthcare.