Shared Electronic Health Records: A changing landscape for security in medical practice

The advances in networking and communications have created a landscape of change for information security in medical practice with the use of electronic health records. Whilst the benefits of improved quality are accepted, the ethical, logistical and security demands have increased. To resolve the problems faced, mapping how medical practice has to adapt to the shifting nature of security in this environment is necessary. The solutions are far from uncomplicated and include education, information governance and policy. Despite the benefits, the success of nationally shared electronic health records requires demonstration of security assurance and recognition medical practice will need assistance to adapt.