Much of our data is stored online. We input sensitive information into portals, forms, and applications, trusting that security systems protect it. Some of our most sensitive data pertains to our health, and privacy is, understandably, incredibly important.
Different healthcare systems use different technologies to both store and secure information. The American Medical Association reports that healthcare systems such as Atlantic Health, Geisinger, Henry Ford Health, and more are implementing AI into everyday functions. How do AI systems impact the healthcare organizations they support?
How AI Works With Healthcare Data
AI systems make the most of existing data. In that existing data pool is structured data and unstructured data. Structured data includes quantitative, numerical information such as a patient’s birthdate, height, and lab results. Unstructured data, meanwhile, includes clinical notes, commentary, and reports. AI systems train themselves to detect patterns in both kinds of data.
AI then uses these patterns to inform clinical decisions and potentially streamline operations. The National Library of Medicine notes the application of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has the potential to address some of the supply and demand challenges within healthcare.
AI Usage and Privacy Concerns in Healthcare
Allowing AI systems to access this amount and depth of data, however, raises many complex concerns about privacy. Healthcare systems have a duty to protect patients’ sensitive information and comply with established regulations governing patient data. Laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) set strict standards for how healthcare data is collected, stored, and shared.
HIPAA safeguards sensitive Protected Health Information from unauthorized disclosure, ensures patients’ rights over their healthcare records, and ensures the secure exchange of patient data. But diligent HIPAA compliance becomes more challenging with AI systems involved. These systems often require data to be aggregated, transferred, or analyzed across multiple platforms, increasing the risk of unauthorized access or exposure.
AI systems can create new risks, such as unintentionally exposing sensitive training data if protections like anonymization aren’t strong enough. The use of third-party vendors also adds more potential points where data could be compromised, making oversight and monitoring critical. Many AI models lack transparency, which can make it difficult for healthcare providers to explain decisions, potentially undermining patient trust and complicating regulatory compliance.
Responsibility and Compliance
In healthcare, balancing technological innovation with responsibility means prioritizing compliance. While AI presents current and potential benefits, these benefits must be achieved within strict regulatory frameworks such as HIPAA and other data protection standards. Maintaining patient trust, and avoiding significant legal and financial consequences, comes down to strong compliance.
Compliance-driven protections include strong encryption, role-based access controls, and the use of de-identified or synthetic data to minimize exposure of sensitive information. Regular audits, risk assessments, and documentation practices are essential, as is building a culture of compliance within the company through clear governance structures, well-defined policies, and ongoing monitoring.
A Degree for A Career in Healthcare Compliance
Healthcare compliance is an exciting field that impacts everyone. For professionals looking to lead at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and regulation, Seattle University School of Law offers an online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Compliance and Risk Management with a healthcare compliance concentration. The program provides training in healthcare law, regulatory compliance, and risk management, including key frameworks such as HIPAA and fraud and abuse laws.
Designed as a flexible, part-time online program, it allows working professionals to build practical skills in legal analysis, auditing, and compliance operations. Graduates are prepared for roles such as compliance officer, privacy specialist, and compliance auditor, that are in demand as healthcare organizations navigate evolving regulations and new technologies.
Learn more and apply today.
