Why Combining Identity Verification and IAM Is so Powerful

The state of healthcare cybersecurity is increasingly alarming, there has been a surge in cyberattacks that threaten sensitive patient information and operational integrity.

The state of healthcare cybersecurity is increasingly alarming, there has been surge in cyberattacks that threaten sensitive patient information and operational integrity. Healthcare has become one of the most targeted industries, with ransomware attacks and data breaches becoming too common. Data breaches due to unauthorized access/disclosure have declined in 2024; even so 20M individuals still have been impacted.¹ This only emphasizes the need to know who your trusted online users are and if they should be where they are. 

Healthcare organizations accounted for 19% of all data breaches in 2022, reflecting the current vulnerability.² The high value of health records on the dark web motivates cybercriminals, making robust security measures essential.³ 

Many healthcare organizations are working with outdated technology and inadequate cybersecurity budgets, often leaving them exposed to threats. Compliance with HIPAA adds complexity, as organizations must balance stringent security requirements with the need for patient satisfaction. Patients expect a secure and convenient portal to access their records. 

Despite challenges, healthcare providers are aware of the need for enhanced cybersecurity strategies. Overall, healthcare organizations are prioritizing cybersecurity in their budgets and in 2023 planned to increase in 2024.⁴ Investments in advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, are being integrated to improve threat detection and response capabilities.⁵  

To help organizations become more aware and encourage security, the federal government has launched programs like the Digital Health Security project to help improve cybersecurity.⁶ The Department of Human Services (HHS) is establishing cybersecurity standards.⁷ In addition, HHS is encouraging the healthcare sector to establish voluntary cybersecurity goals.⁸  

All efforts will make healthcare organizations more secure and that extend to patient portals. When you are thinking about your cybersecurity strategy, you must also consider patient digital experience and how you benefit from providing a good experience. Patients are more willing to use a portal that is convenient to use, leading to patient engagement and satisfaction. The use of digital tools by patients has been found to lead to better health outcomes.⁹ 

Identity Verification is Critical 

Digital identity verification is crucial in healthcare to protect sensitive patient information, ensure the integrity of care and secure healthcare data on portals. As healthcare providers increasingly relies on electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine, verifying the identities of both patients and healthcare providers becomes essential to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard data.¹⁰  

Robust identity verification processes help reduce risks associated with data breaches and identity theft. Healthcare organizations face the highest average cost per data breach, emphasizing financial implications of insufficient identity management.¹¹ Effective digital identity solutions, such as multi-factor authentication, biometric verification and behavioral verification, strengthen security by ensuring the person is who they say they are. 

As healthcare continues to support and implement digital transformation, prioritizing identity verification will be important for building trust, ensuring HIPAA compliance and protecting the confidentiality of patient data. 

Why IAM Is Important 

Healthcare identity access management (IAM) is critical for the ability grant or deny access. IAM helps protect sensitive patient information by ensuring only authorized personnel can access necessary data to provide quality care. IAM encompasses policies, technologies and processes designed to manage user identities and control access to healthcare information, which is critical to comply with HIPAA. 

IAM platforms also enhance operational efficiency by automating user provisioning and de-provisioning processes, enabling healthcare organizations to swiftly adapt to workforce changes while maintaining security. This automation not only reduces administrative burdens but also minimizes the risk of human error, a common vulnerability in managing access to sensitive information.  Effective healthcare IAM is vital for balancing security and accessibility, protecting patient data in an increasingly digital environment while enabling healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality care efficiently. 

Conclusion 

IAM alone doesn’t verify user identities. However, a strategy that includes both IAM and identity verification/authentication is most secure. It enables you to know that the online user is who they say they are and grant access based on your access rules. 

References:

1. https://www.hipaajournal.com/healthcare-data-breach-statistics/
2. https://www.mcknightsseniorliving.com/news/healthcare-data-breach-affects-more-than-4-2-million-people/
3. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2022/01/14/healthcare-data-the-perfect-storm/
4. https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/providers/2024-outlook-cybersecurity-trends-health-system-leaders-need-know
5. https://www.isc2.org/Insights/2023/09/Enhancing-Cybersecurity-through-AI-A-Look-into-the-Future
6. https://journal.ahima.org/page/federal-cybersecurity-efforts-seek-to-improve-protection-of-health-data
7. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/12/06/hhs-announces-next-steps-ongoing-work-enhance-cybersecurity-health-care-public-health-sectors.html
8. https://aspr.hhs.gov/cyber/Documents/Health-Care-Sector-Cybersecurity-Dec2023-508.pdf
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30563822/
10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9647912/
11. https://www2.dtexsystems.com/2023ponemonreport