Security: Only One Third Believe Healthcare Is On The Right Track

By Katie Wike, contributing writer

A recent security survey finds less than one third of providers, administrators, and consumers believe healthcare is on the right track for the future.

According to a recent survey, providers are anxious about their industry, specifically “losing their autonomy, being ready and being able to cope with the impact of risk sharing compensation systems, healthcare consolidation limiting their ability to deliver appropriate care, and shortages of doctors (that are) placing greater demands on an already stressed healthcare system.”

Additionally, only one-third of consumers and administrators believe the healthcare system is on the right track, while one-quarter of primary care physicians and 20 percent of specialists believe the same thing.

The report, from Booz Allen Hamilton and Ipsos Public Affairs, also highlights the importance of protecting privacy and personal medical information. According to Health IT Security, this was the top concern for consumers who participated in the survey.

“Improvements in and expansion of technology provide countless opportunities to enhance care, communication, and collaboration between patients and providers,” the report stated. “That, in turn, can foster prevention, reduce costs, and improve overall healthcare.”

While many providers (60 percent) said they would recommend mobile apps to their patients, it was also made known that they believe there is room for improvement in the security of those apps. “Providers agree overwhelmingly (86 percent) that internet and mobile apps must be scrutinized carefully to ensure that they are providing accurate and easy-to-understand information for consumers,” the report stated.

“Improving healthcare, reducing costs, and doing both with expanded focus on prevention and the role of technology will continue to be among key healthcare priorities for many years.”