Protecting Patient Data: IT Security Best Practices for Tulsa Healthcare

Safeguarding patient data is a critical responsibility for healthcare providers. With rising cyber threats and strict compliance regulations, Tulsa’s healthcare organizations must take proactive steps to protect sensitive information. A recent report found that in 2024, healthcare became the top target for cybercriminals, accounting for 23% of all data breaches. Additionally, healthcare organizations have had the highest average cost of a data breach for the 14th year in a row at $9.77 million.

What is Healthcare Data Security?

Protecting patient data is essential not only for regulatory compliance but also for maintaining trust and avoiding costly breaches. As cybercriminals increasingly target healthcare organizations, strong security measures are more important than ever.

Healthcare data security refers to the strategies and protocols used to safeguard sensitive patient information from unauthorized access, cyber threats, and breaches. This includes protecting electronic health records (EHRs), personal health information (PHI), and other critical medical data. Effective security measures involve encryption, controlled access, regulatory compliance, and ongoing monitoring.

To help healthcare providers strengthen their security posture, we’ve outlined key best practices that can enhance data protection and mitigate risks.

1. Implement Strong Access Controls

Controlling who has access to patient data is fundamental. Healthcare organizations should enforce role-based access, requiring employees to use unique credentials and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to log in to systems. Regular audits should be conducted to review access privileges and remove any unnecessary permissions.

2. Encrypt Data at Rest and in Transit

Encryption is crucial in preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data. All patient records should be encrypted both at rest (when stored) and in transit (when sent electronically). Using strong encryption protocols helps protect data from cybercriminals attempting to intercept or steal information.

3. Regularly Update and Patch Systems

Outdated software and operating systems are a major security risk. Healthcare IT teams should establish a routine schedule for updating and patching all systems, including electronic health records (EHRs), servers, and medical devices. This practice mitigates vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.

4. Conduct Employee Training on Cybersecurity Awareness

Human error remains one of the biggest threats to data security. Regular training sessions should be conducted to educate healthcare staff on recognizing phishing attacks, using strong passwords, and following proper security protocols. A well-informed workforce is the first line of defense against cyber threats.

5. Utilize Network Security Measures

A strong network security framework is essential in preventing unauthorized access. Healthcare organizations should deploy firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and virtual private networks (VPNs) to secure their networks. Implementing segmentation within the network can also limit the spread of a potential breach.

6. Establish a Data Backup and Recovery Plan

Data loss can occur due to cyberattacks, hardware failures, or natural disasters. Implementing a comprehensive data backup strategy ensures that patient information can be restored quickly in the event of a breach or system failure. Backups should be encrypted and stored in secure locations, both on-site and off-site.

7. Comply with HIPAA and Other Regulations

Healthcare providers in Tulsa must adhere to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other relevant regulations. Regular compliance audits, risk assessments, and documentation of security policies are necessary to ensure adherence to legal requirements and avoid costly penalties.

8. Monitor and Respond to Security Incidents

Having a proactive monitoring system in place helps detect and respond to security threats in real-time. Implementing security information and event management (SIEM) tools allows healthcare IT teams to analyze and address potential vulnerabilities before they escalate.

9. Create an Incident Response Plan

No system is entirely immune to cyber threats, making an incident response plan essential. Healthcare organizations should develop a clear, step-by-step plan outlining how to detect, respond to, and recover from security breaches. This plan should include roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and procedures for mitigating damage and restoring systems. Regular testing and simulations can help ensure readiness in the event of an actual breach.

How Combined Technology Can Help

At Combined Technology, we specialize in providing managed IT services tailored to the unique needs of healthcare organizations. Our team helps Tulsa healthcare providers implement strong security measures, monitor for cyber threats, and ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations. From access control management to incident response planning, we offer comprehensive IT solutions to protect patient data. Learn more about how we can support your organization here: Managed IT Services for Healthcare.

HIPAA data shows that reported healthcare data breaches in the US increased from 200 to 725 incidents between 2011 and 2023. Protecting patient data in Tulsa’s healthcare industry requires a proactive and multi-layered approach. By implementing strong access controls, encrypting sensitive information, keeping systems updated, educating employees, and adhering to compliance regulations, healthcare organizations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches. Prioritizing cybersecurity not only protects patient trust but also ensures compliance with industry standards.