HIPAA Security Reminder of the Week

Working Off-Site

When working off-site, remember:

Do not take confidential information off-site unless:

• You have official authorization from your department or division manager and department policy or practice permits the information to be taken off-site.
• The information must be taken off-site to fulfill your job duties (for example: home visits to a patient).

For hard copies in transit:

• Carry sensitive documentation/records in a locked satchel or case.
• Do not leave sensitive documentation/records unattended, e.g. at restaurants, washrooms, public transit, etc.
• Do not read sensitive documentation/records where others could see them.

For electronic documentation/records:

• Access documentation/records remotely only on authorized, secure networks with encrypted communication.
• Use a strong password to protect your mobile devices.
• Be sure your computer has up-to-date security, including firewall, antivirus and anti-spam software.