Digital Security for Seniors: Why Managing Your Health Care Online Can Be Safer Than Paper
Lindsay Knake
| 3 min read
Lindsay Knake is a brand journalist for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
You probably have seen your physician type notes into a laptop during your appointments, and you may even have access to your health records through an online portal. There, your physicians and nurses can make updates to your health records, and you can check for test results.
Electronic medical records provide many benefits but may also come with fear of that data being compromised. Here is a look at how you can manage your health care online and how your data is secured.
What is online health care?
Electronic health records are digital versions of paper health documents gathered from you and your medical providers. These records are available only to authorized users.
Rather than having to peruse paper documents, physicians, physician assistants, nurses and staff can make updates in real time. This creates a broad view of a patient’s care and health to allow providers to make evidence-based decisions more quickly. According to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, electronic health records can:
- Contain medical history, diagnoses, medications, vaccinations, allergies, treatment plans and test results, among other records
- Make it easier for health care providers to access up-to-date information
- Coordinate care between providers
- Reduce medical errors
- Improve communication between patients and health care providers
- Reduce cost of care by improving safety
Electronic health records can also link to wearable technology such as heart rate monitors to collect and keep that information in a secure place. Physicians will have access to view the data to aid in your treatment.
Another type of online health care includes telehealth visits. This allows you to meet with your provider by phone or video rather than an office visit. While a virtual visit isn’t suitable for all appointments, it can be helpful for illnesses such as the flu or COVID-19. Physicians can diagnose illnesses and prescribe medications while you stay comfortable at home.
How secure is digital health care and electronic health records?
Federal law requires safeguards to protect your health information. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)Privacy and Security Rules ensure there is tracking to see who accesses your health information, what changes they made and when. Only your health care provider and insurance company have access to your health records, whether electronic or paper.
Doctor’s offices, health care practices and insurance companies have access to secure, encrypted tools to manage this sensitive information. Online records have advantages over paper records, including keeping a record of changes to these documents, increased legibility and continuity in case a practice closes or staff members change.
Steps you can take to ensure your electronic health records are safe include:
- Create strong passwords and different passwords for each account. Update them regularly.
- Do not share passwords except with trusted family or loved ones who help you manage your health care.
- Do not share your health information on social media.
- Talk to your physician if you have concerns about your electronic health records and who has access to them.
To sign up for your member account, visit bcbsm.com/register. You can access your member account online or through the BCBSM App.
Image: Getty Images
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