DHC: EHR Data Target for Identity Thieves

MedPage Today, December 7, 2011

BEI Commentary: There are good reasons for Meaningful Use Core Measure 15.  According to some experts, stolen health care data can be worth much
more than even credit card numbers.  Another major difference is that credit card numbers can be cancelled.  Health information always remains with the individual.

Medical identity theft has become one of the most lucrative forms of identity theft, according to a panel of cybersecurity specialists.

Stolen patient data  –  including electronic health records as well as insurance information  –  is valuable because it can be used to make false or inflated insurance claims, obtain prescription drugs, or receive treatment at the insurance account holder’s expense. Read More

http://www.medpagetoday.com/PracticeManagement/InformationTechnology/30074