Many healthcare facilities could benefit from having Houston video surveillance as part of their security systems. However, many facility managers may wonder if they can put up cameras. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a common concern when it comes to healthcare security cameras. However, there are ways to both protect your patients’ privacy while still maintaining security for your facility.
Benefits of Houston Video Surveillance for Healthcare Facilities
Video cameras are a common part of Houston office security systems because they help deter crime. Security camera footage is also valuable after an incident, as it can help law enforcement find the responsible party. Houston video surveillance can also help deter internal crime. Healthcare facilities can be particularly vulnerable to crime, as they are open to the public and often contain expensive equipment, cash, and medications. Internal drug theft can also be a serious issue. Cameras can help cut down on these issues as a part of your overall security plan. However, you may wonder if cameras are HIPAA compliant.
Making Houston Video Surveillance HIPAA-Friendly
HIPAA’s privacy rule helps protect patients from privacy breaches and is an important consideration for every healthcare facility. When it comes to Houston video surveillance, you need to consider HIPAA regulations. With a few things in mind, you can design your security camera system to be compliant with laws regarding patient privacy. The main considerations are where the cameras are and who has access to the footage.
Camera Placement
Houston video surveillance in healthcare facilities is legal so long as they don’t record in places where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy. For example, some areas where most people expect some privacy include exam rooms, restrooms, labs, and operating rooms. Therefore, you want to make sure security cameras don’t capture video or audio in these areas, as this could be a HIPAA violation. You also want to make sure that the cameras will not be able to capture protected health information. Therefore, consider which devices and computers the cameras point toward.
Instead, you can install Houston video surveillance cameras in common or public areas. For example, you can place security cameras at entrances and exits, in parking lots, in elevators, in hallways, in the lobby, and other such places.
Footage Access
Another important consideration is who will be able to access security camera footage in your healthcare facility. Even if your cameras are placed correctly for HIPAA compliance, you still need to protect the footage. Restrict access to security camera streaming and archived recordings to only necessary personnel. Also, make sure that viewing is only done on secure devices in restricted areas of your healthcare facility. This can help you maintain patient privacy with video surveillance measures.
At Securecomm Technologies, we are experts in security and safety for a wide range of industries. Whether you need Houston office security systems, healthcare security cameras, or Houston intercom installation, our team has solutions for you. We help you design custom systems that meet your security needs and your budget. Give us a call today at (281) 290-8383 to learn more and schedule a free system demonstration!