Health Information Technology a Prime Target for Hackers

by Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@careertrainingdirectory.com
Career Training Directory Columnist

Recent studies show that almost one third of all hacker attacks involve the theft of personal information from health information technology servers in hospitals and doctors’ offices. IT professionals are working to secure this personal data, stop hackers, and keep down exorbitant health care costs.

The results of stolen health information can be disastrous. Take for example the most recent health information technology attacks on our nation’s colleges and universities. According to MSNBC.com, an attack at the University of Texas by hackers resulted in nearly 200,000 personal health records exposed, including social security numbers and other critical data. This is just one example of the importance of securing health information technology tools and databases from potential online threats.

Health Information Technology: Unsecured & Unsettling

• First Steps. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services advocates security standards and electronic signature protocols to heighten defenses.
• HIPPA. The Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act, while streamlining medical processes, has left social security numbers on all online documents and within easy grasp of experienced hackers.
• Government Model. Advocates for health information technology protection propose holding medical facilities to the same government standards of protection and security.

The Information Technology Career Profile

You can join the battle for securing personal health data by earning your degree in information technology and joining a network team. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a bright future for graduates in this field.

• Routes of Entry. You can earn a degree in information technology on campus or online, depending upon your educational preference.
• Growing Market. Employment of information technology pros is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014.
• Variety of Settings. Information technology professionals work in every sector of society that depends on networks and databases for operations.

Health information technology will continue to be a major concern for patients and professionals alike. You can build a successful career by solving complex issues in this field.

Sources

“Computer and Information Systems Managers,” U.S. Department of Labor Statistics
” It’s Time to Protect Students’ Data,” MSNBC.com
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

About the Author

Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.