Keeping patient data private in the modern world

As GPs, we are all aware that patient confidentiality is sacrosanct. But in the modern world, keeping patient data private and secure poses a big challenge.
 
Privacy Awareness Week, which this year takes place from 16–22 June, aims to spark awareness of the importance of good privacy practices.
 
The theme for this year’s event is ‘Privacy – it’s everyone’s business’.
 
It’s a reminder of the importance of protecting personal information – be it our own, that of our business, and most importantly, that of our patients.
 
If you have ever been the victim of a cybersecurity incident, you will know the devastating cost of a privacy breach. It’s one of the worst things that can happen to a business – particularly a healthcare business, given the sensitive nature of the data entrusted to us.
 
Protecting general practice data requires a multi-pronged approach. There are lots of things that can be done at the practice level.
 
Your IT provider can set up multi-factor authentication for access to software systems, install anti-virus software, keep software up to date with patches and fixes, and upgrade hardware.
 
But it’s also important to take individual action. There are simple steps you can take, such as generating a strong and unique password for all software systems and websites.
 
Another crucial thing to do is pause to think before entering your credentials anywhere on the internet, particularly in emails.
 
Never enter details into a form from a link in an email, be wary of unsolicited attachments, and look out for suspicious logins.
 
The RACGP has a comprehensive guide on ‘privacy and managing health information in general practice’. Here, you’ll find all sorts of practical information, including a series of privacy considerations pertaining to consent, collecting health information, patient access to personal information, and much more.
 
I would also like to draw your attention to the RACGP’s recently updated privacy policy template, a document designed to explain the processes and procedures your practice uses to manage patients’ personal information.
 
Having such a policy is a requirement under the Australian Privacy Principles. You can personalise this document by including specific details about your practice.
 
Once you’ve filled in the details, let your patients know. Display it in your reception area, on your practice’s website, and refer to it in your patient registration form.
 
Privacy Awareness Week is a great opportunity to consider the role we all have to play in keeping personal data safe.
 
Make this the week to do a ‘health check’ on your security practices.
 
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