Improving password security does not have to be complex. By implementing best practices, healthcare organisations and professionals can protect sensitive information, maintain compliance with frameworks such as HIPAA and GDPR, and safeguard patient trust.
1. Create Strong, Unique Passwords for Enhance Password Security
A strong password is critical to safeguarding patient data. Ideally, passwords should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special symbols. Avoid personal information, such as names or dates of birth, which can be easily discovered online.
Each system or account should have a unique password to prevent a domino effect if one account is compromised. Password managers can assist healthcare professionals in securely generating and storing complex passwords, reducing the risk of reuse or weak credentials.
2. Avoid Common Password Security Pitfalls
Healthcare staff should avoid predictable passwords, including sequential numbers (“123456”) or common dictionary words (“sunshine”). These are easily targeted by automated attacks. Cybercriminals often gather information from public profiles or healthcare-related publications, making seemingly harmless details a potential security risk.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Even strong passwords can be compromised. Two-factor authentication adds an additional verification layer, requiring users to provide something they know (a password) and something they have (e.g., a code sent to a mobile device).
Implementing 2FA for healthcare systems, EHRs, and patient portals significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access and ensures compliance with healthcare data protection standards.
4. Treat Security Questions with Care
Security questions can provide a pathway for attackers if answers are easily guessable. In healthcare, where systems often store highly sensitive information, it is advisable to use unrelated or randomly generated answers stored securely in a password manager rather than personal details.
5. Keep Passwords Confidential
Sharing passwords—even within healthcare teams—can compromise system security. Only authorised personnel should have access to critical systems, and shared accounts should use secure, enterprise-level tools that allow multiple authorised users without exposing passwords. Strict policies around password storage should be implemented and staff trained in how to manage them. Passwords should not be on sticky notes on the bottom of the laptop or in a notebook in your desk drawer.
6. Change Passwords Regularly
Over time, even robust passwords can become vulnerable. Healthcare organisations should implement policies requiring periodic password changes, particularly for staff accessing patient records or sensitive operational systems. This helps mitigate risks in the event of breaches at other sites or data leaks on the dark web.
7. Utilise a Password Manager
Password managers offer secure storage, automated password generation, and cross-device synchronisation. Tools such as LastPass, Dashlane, and 1Password can help healthcare staff manage multiple complex passwords, reducing human error and strengthening overall organisational security.
8. Be Vigilant Against Phishing Attempts
Healthcare professionals are prime targets for phishing attacks, which aim to steal login credentials through deceptive emails, messages, or websites. Staff should verify the source of requests for sensitive information, navigate directly to official portals, and report suspicious communications to IT security teams immediately.
9. Monitor Accounts for Unusual Activity
Regularly reviewing system access logs and monitoring for unusual activity is essential. Early detection of unauthorised access allows healthcare organisations to respond quickly, preventing potential breaches and ensuring patient care continuity.
In healthcare, the stakes for cybersecurity are particularly high. Strong password practices form a critical component of a broader data protection strategy, protecting patient information, maintaining regulatory compliance, and preserving organisational reputation.
Cybersecurity is an ongoing responsibility that demands vigilance, education, and the adoption of best practices. By implementing these ten best password security measures, healthcare professionals can mitigate risk, safeguard sensitive information, and contribute to a secure digital healthcare environment. Strong passwords, combined with informed practices and continuous monitoring, are fundamental to a resilient healthcare organisation. For more information on best practices, upgrading your password security and to see how MediShield can help your organisation book in a consultation call today: Contact Us – medishield.tech