New online toolsA new initiative launched by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)— called Mobile Devices: Know the RISKS. Take the STEPS. PROTECT and SECURE Health Information —aims to “provide health care providers and organizations practical tips on ways to protect their patients’ protected health information when using mobile devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones,” according to the HHS.

“The use of mobile health technology holds great promise in improving health and health care, but the loss of health information can have a devastating impact on the trust that patients have in their providers. It’s important that these tools are used correctly,” said Joy Pritts, chief privacy officer, HHS’ Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC). “Health care providers, administrators, and their staffs must create a culture of privacy and security across their organizations to ensure the privacy and security of their patients’ protected health information.”

The site provides tips and information to help clinicians learn how to protect and secure the health information of their patients.