Healthcare providers can maintain HIPAA compliance in patient communication through Internet of Things (IoT) devices by implementing robust security measures, conducting regular risk assessments, establishing BAAs with vendors, providing staff training on data protection, and developing an incident response plan.
IoT devices are interconnected devices that collect and transmit data over the internet. Healthcare IoT devices include smart glucose meters, heart rate monitors, and infusion pumps. According to a recent review on IoT-based healthcare monitoring, "IoT applications are particularly beneficial for providing healthcare because they enable secure and real-time remote patient monitoring to improve the quality of people’s lives." They can improve patient care by enabling remote monitoring, chronic disease management, and personalized health tracking. They also support telemedicine by enabling virtual consultations and continuous patient engagement.
The Privacy Rule requires that patient information must be protected against unauthorized access. For IoT devices, implementing robust measures ensures that any PHI collected or transmitted remains confidential. Devices must be designed to protect patient data from unauthorized access, both during collection and transmission.
According to the HHS, "The Security Rule requires covered entities to maintain reasonable and appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for protecting e-PHI." Safeguards include ensuring data encryption, securing device access, and implementing authentication protocols for IoT devices.
IoT device manufacturers and service providers who handle PHI for healthcare organizations are considered business associates under HIPAA. A BAA is required to outline their obligations regarding data protection and compliance.
Evaluate the potential impact of device vulnerabilities on PHI and implement measures to address identified risks, which helps minimize the risk of breaches and compliance issues.
Read more: How to perform a risk assessment
Related: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide.
Confirm that all third-party vendors involved with IoT devices have signed a BAA. It should detail their responsibilities for HIPAA compliance and data protection. Verify that vendors stick to these requirements and perform regular audits to maintain compliance.
Related: FAQs: Business associate agreements (BAAs)
Educate staff on securely using IoT devices and the proper handling of patient data. Training should cover how to operate devices securely, recognize potential security threats, and respond to data breaches. Regular training updates help keep staff informed about the latest security practices and compliance requirements.
Cybersecurity researchers and IoT companies, including Roku, Owlet, and Wyze, worked together to fix four critical software vulnerabilities in Kalay, a tool used to manage IoT devices. With over 100 million devices potentially affected, these flaws could have allowed hackers deep access to networks. Bitdefender identified the vulnerabilities as a serious software supply-chain issue, given Kalay's widespread use. After being informed in October, ThroughTek, the maker of Kalay, patched all versions by mid-April and advised users to update their devices. The vulnerabilities could have fully compromised devices, impacting user privacy and safety. Owlet and Roku swiftly addressed the issues and urged users to secure their networks, while Wyze did not comment.
Yes, IoT devices can store patient data locally, and HIPAA applies to this data. Ensure that stored data is encrypted and access controls are in place to prevent unauthorized access.
Wearable IoT devices are subject to HIPAA only if they are used by healthcare providers or covered entities for patient care or if they share data with such entities. Personal use without involvement from healthcare providers generally does not invoke HIPAA.
Healthcare providers should obtain patient consent before using IoT devices for communication, especially when transmitting PHI.