What We’re Reading – 80% of Americans Fear Converting Health Data into Electronic Form

As our country moves more rapidly into the widespread adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs), fear of improper access of their healthcare data or misuse of the information.  Of the people surveyed, 80% of Americans expressed concern about converting medical information into electronic form. Identity theft topped the list of fears, particularly by co-workers or other employers. It seems their concern is not so out of line.  Twenty percent of American employees admitted they would steal electronic data from their employers.  HIPAA has grown tentacles since its enactment 15 years ago and violations, even accidental ones, can carry stiff penalties.