Can you ensure that your RPM data is safe for enterprise clients?

In today's digital age, the protection of patient data has become a paramount concern for healthcare organizations. For RPM companies wanting to grow their enterprise business, they need to be able to confidently assure clients their systems are set up with security in mind. The potential for data breaches and cyber threats has grown exponentially and cellular devices can be particularly vulnerable. Continua Systems was designed with security in mind so we can support our RPM clients with their enterprise business.

Role-based access control

A secure healthcare system needs comprehensive access control measures to ensure that only authorized personnel can access or modify patient data. Role-based access control (RBAC) assigns access permissions based on specific job roles within the healthcare organization.

For example:

• Doctors: Full access to patient medical records, including the ability to update medical histories, prescribe medications, and enter treatment plans.
• Nurses: Access to patient care information, medication administration records, and the ability to update patient vital signs and notes.
• Administrative Staff: Access to patient demographic information and appointment scheduling, but restricted from viewing or altering medical records.
• IT Personnel: Access to system configurations and maintenance logs but no access to patient medical data.

The Continua platform includes role-based access with hierarchical and granular access controls at both the RPM company level and the organization/practice level. Access to device readings, device information, orders, security keys, and payment settings is individually controlled and allocated. 

This structure minimizes the risk of data misuse by limiting access to sensitive information based on an employee's specific responsibilities. It also establishes comprehensive audit trails that record every instance of data access and modification. These logs include details such as:

• User ID: Identifies the person accessing or modifying the data.
• Timestamp: The exact date and time of the access or modification.
• Action Taken: Specifies what was accessed or changed (e.g., viewed patient records, updated medication).
• Affected Records: Identifies which patient's data was involved.

The ability to track user activity, identify potential security breaches, and conduct thorough investigations of any unauthorized actions provides a secure, compliant data environment that RPM companies and their clients can feel confident utilizing.

Data encryption

Encryption is a critical tool for protecting patient data, transforming sensitive information into a code that unauthorized users cannot easily decipher. To ensure robust security, all patient data—whether stored or transmitted—must be encrypted using strong algorithms and secure keys. This includes data on RPM-connected devices, in transit over networks, and stored in the cloud. Encrypted data remains unreadable to intruders in the event of a breach, significantly mitigating potential damage.

Continua uses mutual Transport Layer Security (mTLS), which is a type of authentication that uses the TLS protocol and RSA keys to verify the identity of both a client and a server before data is exchanged. This ensures data in transit is safe and secure from tampering which is critical for cellular data transmissions.

We manage encryption keys securely, employing practices such as key rotation and using hardware security modules (HSMs) for key storage. Regular updates to encryption protocols and algorithms protect against evolving threats so we are continually enhancing the security of patient data.

Network architecture

The most effective multi-layered security approach is a zero-trust network architecture. VPNs are no longer sufficient as unencrypted internal systems can be easily compromised once the VPN layer is breached. A modern, zero-trust network approach, like Continua’s, employs security controls for every network component, not just the entry point.

Key practices of our zero-trust network include:

1. Internal Encryption: All internal communications between nodes are encrypted. Internal servers use encrypted connections when communicating with databases to prevent unauthorized access even if the network perimeter is breached.
2. Strict Authentication: Each internal server, database, and service must authenticate before any data exchange. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access within the network.
3. Segmentation and Least Privilege: Our network is segmented into smaller, isolated sections to enforce the principle of least privilege. Access rights for users, devices, and applications are limited to only what is necessary for their function. This reduces the attack surface and limits potential damage from breaches.
4. Continuous Monitoring and Logging: We regularly analyze network activity logs for unusual activities and conduct audits to ensure compliance with security policies.
5. HIPAA Compliance: Encrypting stored patient data at rest adheres to HIPAA regulations and protects it from unauthorized access and breaches.

Our robust and resilient network infrastructure provides comprehensive protection for patient data, significantly reducing the risk of security breaches and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Your clients need the best enterprise-level security 

Transmitting patient data over cellular networks inherently introduces security risks. Your clients, particularly larger enterprise clients, need to know that you take a comprehensive, proactive approach to protecting sensitive information. Continua Systems can be your partner in significantly mitigating RPM patient data risk associated with data breaches and cyber threats. Contact us to learn more.