Introduction

Why Data Security is Important

Preserving the integrity and security of our information technology systems and the sensitive patient data we manage is a fundamental responsibility at our dental practice. This specialized IT and Data Security Policy provides clear directives for dental practice staff at all levels, to safeguard our digital resources and maintain the confidentiality of our patients' dental health information.

Training and Compliance

Continuous training and strict compliance with this policy are key to maintaining our IT and data security:

• All staff, from dental hygienists to office managers, will receive IT and data security training on joining and annually thereafter.
• Compliance with this policy is mandatory. Non-compliance can result in disciplinary action.
• The IT department will regularly update this policy as needed.
  

Adherence to this policy is integral to the safe operation of our practice. It’s everyone’s responsibility to read, understand, and follow it. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to bring them to your supervisor or the IT department.

Our IT & Data Security Policy

Dental Practice Management Software Access

Maintaining secure access to our Dental Practice Management Software is vital. The following guidelines uphold this principle:

• Each staff member, from dentists to front office staff, should have a unique username and password.
• Passwords should be complex, with at least 12 characters, including a mix of uppercase, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Passwords should not be shared, and should be changed every 90 days.
• Any suspected breach of password security, such as noticing unauthorized patient record changes, must be reported to the IT department immediately.

Secure Email and Internet Usage

Emails and internet browsing can pose a risk to our dental practice's IT systems. It's crucial to adhere to the following rules:

• Be cautious when opening emails from unknown sources, which could contain malware threatening our dental imaging and patient management systems.
• Limit browsing to trusted websites to reduce the risk of downloading malicious software inadvertently.
• As mentioned in our HIPAA Policy, never send sensitive dental health information via email unless it is encrypted and the recipient has been verified.

Dental Patient Data Privacy

Protecting the privacy of dental patient data is both a legal and ethical obligation. The following rules ensure we respect and uphold this privacy:

• Access to dental patient records should only be given based on job role requirements, and all access should be logged.
• Ensure that digital radiographs, patient notes, and other sensitive data are never left open and unattended on your screen.
• Patient data, including digital impressions, radiographs, or photos, should not be copied, stored, or transferred outside our secure systems without approval.
• Dental patient data must be securely deleted or anonymized when it's no longer needed.

Dental Practice Device and Network Security

The computers and devices we use to access dental software and the network we rely on are essential components that need to be protected. This is how we ensure their security:

• Ensure all devices used to access dental software, radiographs, or patient data have up-to-date anti-virus and anti-malware software installed. They'll fight off any unwanted attempts to access our secure information.
• Do not use unsecured Wi-Fi networks to access our dental practice management systems or patient data.
• Always lock computers and devices when not in use, especially in public areas such as reception desks or shared workstations.
• Report lost or stolen devices that had access to dental software or patient data to the IT department immediately.

Reporting and Response to IT Security Incidents

Despite preventative measures, IT security incidents can occur. Here's how to report and respond:

• Report any suspicious activity, like unexpected system behavior or unaccounted-for patient record changes, to the IT department immediately.
• The IT department will investigate and take necessary steps to limit damage and prevent further breaches, such as restoring from secure backups if data loss occurs.
• Lessons learned from incidents, like new phishing tactics or malware trends, will be shared with all staff to prevent recurrence.

Questions?

Questions? Reach out to the owner of this subject.‍

By e-signing, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to follow all of the guidelines outlined in this IT & Data Security Policy.