In many under-resourced healthcare facilities across the world, patient privacy can become compromised, especially when a high volume of patients is treated in a small space with healthcare professionals.
Final-year medical student at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Theron Govender explains, "We have been at many medical sites through our years of training, and a lot of the time, public health care facilities are falling flat in maintaining patient privacy..."
Even in the U.S., many underfunded clinics do not have private rooms, so healthcare providers are more likely to have sensitive conversations in public spaces. Theron adds this is especially true in emergencies where “patients are seen together in some instances [and consequently] patient privacy is neglected.”
More specifically, patients can become more hesitant to disclose their history when they are aware of others being in earshot. Privacy issues can also erode patients’ trust in their providers, leading to potential misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment.
Therefore, healthcare providers must prioritize patient privacy and facilitate open communication to improve patient outcomes.
Addressing patient privacy concerns
HIPAA compliant email solutions, like Paubox, can help alleviate this privacy crisis. Unlike face-to-face conversations that take place in noisy and crowded facilities, encrypted emails allow patients to access their health information privately and securely.
It allows providers to securely deliver sensitive health information to patients after clinic visits, especially when physical resources like private consultation rooms aren’t available.
Moreover, providers can use HIPAA compliant emails to send follow-up information to patients without putting them in the vulnerable position of having private details overheard.
Bridging the gap between limited resources and quality care
While secure email cannot cure the ills of an underfunded healthcare system, it is necessary to maintain patient privacy and trust in the clinic. The more facilities use HIPAA compliant email, the better their chances of getting a grasp of the issues Govender identifies in the health sector.
In an under-resourced environment, conventional communication is bound to compromise patient privacy. However, using an affordable solution like Paubox email can help restore patients’ dignity, bridging the gap between limited resources and quality care so even the most vulnerable patients receive the respect and attention they need for better health management.
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FAQs
Who needs to be HIPAA compliant?
Covered entities, including healthcare providers, health plans, healthcare clearinghouses, and their business associates, must be HIPAA compliant.
Can providers use email for patient reminders and appointment scheduling?
Yes, providers can use HIPAA compliant emails for appointment reminders and scheduling, helping to reduce no-shows and improve overall efficiency in healthcare settings.
Are secure email solutions user-friendly?
Yes, secure email solutions like Paubox are designed to be user-friendly and integrated into existing email workflows for healthcare providers. For patients, accessing encrypted emails is as simple as opening a regular email without additional login credentials or portals.
