Data security in digital health: a crucial issue

The digital revolution in the healthcare sector brings with it new challenges, particularly when it comes to the security of medical data. Health data is particularly sensitive, and its protection has become a priority to ensure patient confidentiality. SOCASAN, with the support of KimboCare, plays a key role in raising awareness and implementing robust security protocols to ensure the secure management of this information.

1. Confidentiality and Protection of Personal Information

Electronic medical records contain highly sensitive information, such as medical histories, diagnoses, and ongoing treatments. Protecting this data is crucial to maintaining patient trust. SOCASAN promotes the use of encryption solutions and multi-factor authentication protocols to ensure that only authorized professionals can access patient information. Raising awareness among healthcare institutions about the importance of protecting personal data is at the core of SOCASAN’s efforts.

2. Cyberattacks in Healthcare

Cyberattacks targeting healthcare institutions are becoming more frequent, as they are seen as easy targets for cybercriminals. Ransomware attacks can block access to critical systems and endanger patients’ lives. SOCASAN encourages hospitals and clinics to adopt advanced security systems, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. In collaboration with KimboCare, SOCASAN offers security audits to help institutions identify and fix vulnerabilities in their systems.

3. Regulation and Compliance with International Standards

Health data protection does not rely solely on technology. Governments and international organizations are working to establish legal frameworks to safeguard this information. In Europe, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) imposes strict rules on data management. SOCASAN advocates for the adoption of similar standards in Cameroon and across Africa to ensure that healthcare institutions meet the highest data protection standards.

4. Staff Awareness and Training

Data security cannot be ensured without proper staff awareness and training. Human errors are often the cause of data breaches. SOCASAN organizes training sessions for medical and administrative staff to raise awareness of best practices in data management. This includes the importance of using strong passwords, regularly updating systems, and carefully managing access to data.