Abstract
The adoption of Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems has marked a transformative stage in healthcare data management worldwide. However, this transition is notably delayed by the prevailing concerns about privacy and security, particularly in the context of patient information, causing many health organizations in develo** countries across the Pacific region to be cautious in their approach. The worry stems from the significant challenge of safeguarding an extensive volume of sensitive health data that exists in various forms and is distributed across diverse locations. This paper investigates the multi-layered privacy and security challenges associated with EMR systems, emphasizing Pacific develo** nations’ unique circumstances. The complexities surrounding data protection, compliance with privacy regulations, and the potential for data breaches are precisely examined. A case study of the Pacific region is presented to illuminate the significance of these challenges. It underlines the real-world details that healthcare providers and patients in these develo** nations face as they navigate the adoption of EMR systems. Moreover, this document provides an exhaustive array of tactics for tackling these issues and guaranteeing the security of patient information. These strategies encompass robust encryption techniques, access controls, user authentication mechanisms, and ongoing security assessments. However, in response to these challenges, and given the unique needs and circumstances of the Pacific region, we propose a strategic shift towards a cloud-based medical record system. This approach enhances data security and provides a cost-effective solution, especially vital in resource-constrained settings.
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Sharma, P., Bir, J., Prakash, S. (2024). Navigating Privacy and Security Challenges in Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Systems: Strategies for Safeguarding Patient Data in Develo** Countries – A Case Study of the Pacific. In: Su, R., Zhang, YD., Frangi, A.F. (eds) Proceedings of 2023 International Conference on Medical Imaging and Computer-Aided Diagnosis (MICAD 2023). MICAD 2023. Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering, vol 1166. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-1335-6_33
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