Using video apps and other technologies for telehealth can create risks to the privacy and security of your health information. This can include when accessing telehealth services on a website, through an app, or even through a patient portal. Please look at these tips to protect and secure your health information.
Have your telehealth appointment in a private location. During your telehealth appointment, ensure that you are in a private location where you have control over who can hear or see your conversation. It is best to find a private room with a door or a parked car. If you cannot find a private space, consider using headphones, positioning your device in a way that others cannot see your screen, and avoiding the use of a speakerphone.
Turn off any nearby electronic devices that may overhear or record information. Turn off any electronic devices that may overhear or record information. This includes home security cameras, smart speakers, or apps on your phone that respond to your voice. It is important to prevent them from overhearing or recording your telehealth appointment.
Use a personal computer or mobile device, if possible. If possible, use a personal computer or mobile device for your telehealth session. Avoid using a computer, mobile device, or network that is tied to your workplace or a public setting. Some workplaces and public settings may monitor your activity when using their devices or unsecured public networks.
Install all available security updates on your computer or mobile device. Keep your computer or mobile device updated with the latest security updates. For most mobile devices, go to the settings icon or tab and turn on automatic updates. Otherwise, manually install updates as soon as they are available.
Use strong, unique passwords. Use strong and unique passwords for each app, website, computer, or mobile device that you use for your telehealth appointment. This helps to keep your information safe in case someone discovers one of your passwords. Remember to change your passwords regularly.
Turn on the lock screen function. Activate the lock screen function on your computer or mobile device. Go to settings and set a short amount of time before your device locks the screen due to inactivity. This prevents access to your health information stored on your device unless they have the password.
Delete health information on your computer or mobile device when you don’t need it anymore. Delete health information on your computer or mobile device when it is no longer needed. This helps reduce the risk of someone accessing your health information if they gain access to your device.
Turn on two-step or multi-factor authentication (if it’s available and you can use it). Use two-step or multi-factor authentication if it is available. SimpleTherapy's apps require a username and password, and also provides an option for multi-factor authentication and biometric authentication such as FaceID. This makes it harder for someone else to use the app as they would need access to your phone or email to obtain a code to log in.
Use encryption tools when available. Use encryption tools when available. Turn on encryption on your phone or mobile device and any apps that you use to communicate with your healthcare provider or health plan, such as video chat or messaging apps. Encryption helps to protect and secure your information by making it unreadable by anyone without the right key or password.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks and any USB ports at public charging stations. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks and any USB ports at public charging stations. Public networks may not have security to protect the health information you may want to send using their network. Also, cyber-criminals can steal sensitive information by creating fake public Wi-Fi networks that people unknowingly sign onto. They may also use public USB charging ports to install viruses or other malware on your device.
Let us know if you have any questions about the telehealth appointment or the telehealth technology. If you have any questions about the telehealth appointment or the telehealth technology, let us know. You can ask for help with instructions on using the technology or accommodations you need for the telehealth appointment, such as a screen reader or closed captioning.
If you’re suspicious of a link or have any doubts about a link, contact us right away. If you are suspicious of a link or have any doubts about a link, contact our support team right away. Some telehealth appointments may require the provider to send you a link to your phone or email. If you are unsure about the validity of the link, it is always best to contact us directly via text or email.
Need help? Text us at +1(844)-731-3644 or email us at [email protected].
Get more tips to protect your information:
Guidance for Individuals on Protecting the Privacy and Security of Your Health Information When Using Your Personal Cell Phone or Tablet.
This site has tips to limit how your cell phone, computer, or other mobile device collects and shares your health and other personal information.
You can find the guidance at https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/privacy/guidance/cell-phone-hipaa/index.html
Other Telehealth Tips.
This site provides other telehealth privacy tips and resources for patients to help make telehealth sessions more secure.
You can find this information at https://telehealth.hhs.gov/patients/telehealth-privacy-for-patients.
Cybersecurity Tips.
This site provides four tips to help keep you safe from cyber-attacks and cyber-criminals.
You can find this site at https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/news/4-things-you-can-do-keep-yourself-cyber-safe.