Write a 5-6 in which you:
Choose a type of IT system applied to Health Information Management (HIM) for improved patient quality of care supported by an explanation for your selection.
Examples include
Electronic Health Record Systems.
e-prescribing Systems.
Clinical Decision Support Systems.
Radiology Information Systems.
Physician Order Entry Systems.
Outline organizational needs that define the requirements for the selected type of IT system applied to HIM.
Critique each of the five phases of the SDLC and how each addresses the organizational needs for the selected type of IT system applied to HIM.
Assess three possible data and security breach vulnerabilities in the selected type of IT system applied to HIM.
Evaluate three protocols to mitigate identified data and security breach vulnerabilities and improve the selected type of IT system applied to HIM.
Synthesize how the outcomes from the analysis of a selected IT system using the SDLC can improve patient quality of care.
Full Answer Section
Organizational Needs for EHR Systems
- To improve the quality and efficiency of patient care
- To reduce medical errors
- To improve coordination of care
- To comply with government regulations
- To improve patient satisfaction
Critique of the SDLC Phases and How They Address Organizational Needs for EHR Systems
The SDLC is a systematic approach to developing and implementing IT systems. It consists of five phases:
- Requirements gathering and analysis: This phase involves identifying and prioritizing the organization's needs for the new IT system.
- System design: This phase involves developing a detailed plan for the new IT system, including its features, functionality, and architecture.
- Development: This phase involves coding the new IT system according to the design specifications.
- Testing: This phase involves testing the new IT system to ensure that it meets the requirements and works as expected.
- Implementation: This phase involves deploying the new IT system to the user environment and training users on how to use it.
Requirements gathering and analysis: This phase is essential for ensuring that the EHR system meets the organization's needs. The organization should involve all stakeholders in this process, including clinicians, HIM staff, and patients.
System design: This phase is important for developing a robust and scalable EHR system that can meet the organization's needs for many years to come. The organization should consider factors such as user experience, workflow integration, and security when designing the EHR system.
Development: This phase is complex and time-consuming, but it is essential for delivering a high-quality EHR system. The organization should work with a reputable software vendor or development team to ensure that the EHR system is developed to the highest standards.
Testing: This phase is crucial for identifying and fixing any bugs or defects in the EHR system before it is deployed to the user environment. The organization should develop a comprehensive testing plan that covers all aspects of the EHR system.
Implementation: This phase is critical for ensuring that the EHR system is adopted and used by clinicians and other staff. The organization should develop a communication and training plan to prepare users for the new EHR system.
Data and Security Breach Vulnerabilities in EHR Systems
EHR systems contain a wealth of sensitive patient information, making them a prime target for cyberattacks. Some of the most common data and security breach vulnerabilities in EHR systems include:
- Weak passwords: Weak passwords are one of the easiest ways for attackers to gain access to EHR systems. Employees should be required to create strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Unpatched software: Unpatched software can contain vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Healthcare organizations should regularly patch their EHR systems and other IT systems.
- Phishing attacks: Phishing emails are designed to trick employees into revealing their login credentials or other sensitive information. Healthcare organizations should educate employees about phishing attacks and how to avoid them.
- Malware infections: Malware can infect EHR systems and steal patient data or corrupt the system. Healthcare organizations should implement robust antivirus and antimalware solutions.
- Insider threats: Insider threats occur when employees or contractors misuse their access to EHR systems. Healthcare organizations should implement security controls to prevent insider threats, such as access control lists and audit logs.
Protocols to Mitigate Data and Security Breach Vulnerabilities in EHR Systems
Healthcare organizations can implement a variety of protocols to mitigate data and security breach vulnerabilities in EHR systems. Some of the most effective protocols include:
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security to EHR systems by requiring users to provide two or more factors of authentication, such as a password and a one-time code.
- Encryption: Encryption can be used to protect EHR data at rest and in transit. This makes it much more difficult for attackers to access patient data if they are able to breach the EHR system.
- Security awareness training: Security awareness training can help employees to identify and avoid phishing attacks and other cyber threats.
- Regular security audits: Healthcare organizations should conduct regular security audits to identify and address any vulnerabilities in their EHR systems and other IT systems.
- Incident response plan: Healthcare organizations should have an incident response plan in place to respond to data breaches and other cyber security
Sample Answer
Electronic Health Record (EHR) Systems
EHR systems are digital versions of patient medical records. They contain a comprehensive record of a patient's medical history, including diagnoses, medications, allergies, immunizations, lab results, imaging reports, and other clinical data. EHR systems can be accessed by authorized healthcare providers from anywhere with an internet connection, which improves coordination of care and reduces the risk of medical errors.