Recent lawsuits have revealed a critical privacy concern for healthcare providers – the sharing of patient data with Facebook through tracking pixels. We wrote this article to help your security and privacy teams assess their risk, identify key stakeholders, and understand the urgency of this issue.

Picture this scenario: You’ve used every tool you have to secure your web pages and forms so patient information is safe. One day, a potential patient Googles “hysterectomy options” and ends up on your hospital’s website. They browse around, maybe even schedule an appointment online. You have no reason to worry, right? Because you’ve done what you could to secure those pages.

Websites have become indispensable tools for healthcare organizations to connect with patients, streamline operations, and enhance service delivery. Modern websites are composed of components that “build” unique user experiences in real time.However, the use of tracking technologies on these websites presents unique challenges in complying with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

When we think about HIPAA compliance and websites, the focus often shifts to patient portals, online scheduling systems, and other secure areas requiring user authentication. However, it’s crucial to recognize that even unauthenticated webpages, those accessible to the public without logging in, can present hidden HIPAA risks. Let’s explore these often-overlooked vulnerabilities and discuss how covered entities can mitigate potential compliance pitfalls.

Today, healthcare providers, insurers, and other HIPAA-covered entities are increasingly relying on websites to share information, engage with patients, and streamline operations. While websites offer numerous benefits, it’s crucial to understand the implications of online tracking technologies for the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI).