Privacy

Cyberattacks pose significant risks to patient safety and the operational stability of healthcare organizations. A recent article from HIPAA Times related that unauthorized access to patient data can lead to theft or alteration of medical information, potentially compromising patient health outcomes. For instance, the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack severely disrupted the UK's National Health Service, causing ambulance diversions and surgery cancellations, thereby threatening patient care.

As the opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the United States, digital health services have emerged as a beacon of hope for increasing access to essential addiction treatment and recovery support. However, the promise of these digital platforms is marred by significant privacy and security concerns that threaten the very fabric of effective addiction healthcare.

The following provides a summary based on a new investigative report from the Opioid Policy Institute. Their report delves into the critical aspects of privacy and security that individuals should consider when using digital services for the purchase of opioids and seeks to provide guidance on navigating these digital landscapes safely.

In an era where personal data is as valuable as currency, a recent report by The Washington Post has shed light on a concerning practice in America's largest pharmacy chains. The investigation reveals that pharmacies like CVS Health, Kroger, and Rite Aid have been sharing customers' prescription records with police and government investigators without a warrant. This revelation raises significant concerns about medical privacy and the rights of consumers.