Got Security Concerns About Connecting With Your Doctor via ​​Video? We Have Answers.

Patient holding phone displaying their provider during an e-visit
 

Posted April 9, 2020 by UVM Medical Center

During this time of social distancing, we are relying on new ways to connect and communicate, especially using video chat. Video has helped us connect with our families, coworkers, and now, even our doctors. Many of our practices use the video chatting program called Zoom to conduct video appointments. Recently, you may have heard reports of security and privacy issues with Zoom and we want to reassure you that the Zoom program that UVM Health Network has implemented across our practices is secure and private.

Protections Are in Place

Our patients are at the center of everything we do and maintaining their privacy and data security is very important to us. The UVM Health Network's cybersecurity experts have implemented this telehealth service, which is HIPAA compliant, and provides encryption for all meeting data and chat messages. We also have all necessary systems in place to protect patient information. This team works constantly to review security threats to all our IT programs, including Zoom, and is able to immediately respond to any issues that arise.

Added Level of Security for Your Video Visit

To further ensure privacy and security, we have taken the extra step of requiring a pass code for all Zoom video visits. First, talk with your doctor if a video visit is right for you. If so, you'll be scheduled and contacted by our support team to help you prepare, which includes downloading the Zoom Cloud Meetings app either from the app store onto your iPhone or iPad or from Google Play onto your Android. The encrypted passcode is embedded within the link to your appointment.

Tips From Our Experts

Whether connecting with your doctor or connecting with your loved ones via video, it's important to do what you can to keep your data and information secure.  Here are some tips to keep in mind.

  1. Keep your app software up to date so you have the most secure version downloaded on your device.
  2. Use passcodes or waiting room features on video apps to keep uninvited parties out of your conversations.
  3. Ensure the invitations you receive for video meetings are sent from a trusted source.
  4. If you are using Zoom, use the ‘Lock the Meeting' feature which allows you to block any unwanted guests into your meetings once you have full attendance.

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