What is the True Cost of Using a Free Email Account?

by Terri Walker

Are you relying on a “free” email account for your practice? It’s crucial to unveil the hidden costs associated with these seemingly costless services.

To begin with, consider the stringent requirements outlined in the HIPAA Security Rule, which are essential for ensuring HIPAA-compliant email communication. A HIPAA-compliant email provider must implement robust security measures to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of patient data. Furthermore, they must be equipped to generate audit logs and monitoring tools that detect and report any unauthorized access to sensitive information.

What are some of the Dangers of Free Email Accounts?

The most alarming risk of using free email accounts is the heightened probability of a data breach. These services often lack the stringent security protocols necessary to keep unauthorized individuals from accessing sensitive information, putting your practice at risk of exposing protected health information (PHI) such as Social Security numbers, medical records, and financial data.

Additionally, free email providers typically do not engage in Business Associate Agreements (BAAs), significantly undermining the security of your data. They often lack advanced encryption and security measures vital for ensuring both data transmission and information stored on their servers meet HIPAA compliance.

Moreover, free email accounts are particularly susceptible to phishing and spam attacks, which can further compromise your electronic-protected health information (ePHI).

Consider the serious financial repercussions of a data breach. Is your practice equipped to handle the potentially devastating penalties from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which can escalate from $141 to an astonishing $2,124,831 per violation? Investing in a secure, HIPAA-compliant email solution is not just a smart choice; it is an essential step in safeguarding your practice and your patients. Don’t put your practice at risk; make the smart move to prioritize security and compliance now.

Modern Practice Solutions is committed to assisting you in assessing your current HIPAA compliance and effectively navigating the journey toward full compliance. Take the necessary steps to enhance the security of your practice and safeguard its future today.