Privacy and security of patient data is not only a legal requirement but a need in the healthcare organization. With the advancement in information technologies in the healthcare sector, there exists a huge amount of detailed private information in electronic systems. And this raises the need for protection measures that would guarantee effective security of patient’s information in the foreseeable future, whereby the details of the patient should be kept secret and disclosed only to the personnel with an authorization to access the records.
Amongst all these ethics, informed consent remains one of the most fundamental ones. The patient should be informed of the means through which such data is collected, how it is being used and how it is being shared. In cases where there are no standard guidelines on communication and consent, healthcare givers stand to defy the patient's trust. Since the rules of ethical practices allow the rights of individuals to decide about the aspects of their health information, it is important that these rights are practiced by the societies.
Another essential factor is the minimization or reduction of data collection and processing. Restriction of the type of information collected and the manner in which it is stored and accessed acts as a way of minimizing the number of times there are breaches in the privacy domain. According to the ethical standards the providers shall not overcrowd themselves with the data as it not only makes them vulnerable but also achieve invasion of privacy of the patient’s life.
Security threats are perhaps one of the most concerning ethical dilemmas. Due to cyber threats, people can have their identity stolen or lose money, and personally experience an attack. They should also ensure they use code access and encryption, authorized access and password such as two-factor authentication and periodic vulnerability assessments respectively. Failure in doing this is pardonable negligence, which compromises both the patient and the health care system.
Lastly, Accountability and equity must be upheld to ensure the corporate world does not regress to its old self of recklessly polluting the environment without any regard to the consequences or hazards it poses on human life. This indicates that ethical data handling means subjecting all stakeholders to accountability in case of misuse or negligence. It also includes assuring equal protection of privacy rights without discrimination of the class or number of times one uses computers and the Internet. Protecting patient data is not a luxury but a necessity of the present and the future that defines the trust and safety of a healthcare organization.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Since patient data privacy and security are an essential non-negotiable ethical obligation, we must emphasize that safeguarding patient data must be a priority. It spells for transparency, low data collection, robust cybersecurity and no escapeory. With the evolution of digital health, there is an increase in the need for ethical vigilance. The healthcare providers have to follow patient trust and equity; the data should be handled with integrity, with respect and with a profound sense of professional responsibility.
