As Parkview introduces Two-Step Verification for our MyChart users, it brings up the broader topic of how patients can protect their personal health information in the digital era. We asked Ryan Loeffler, virtual health coordinator, Parkview Health, for more on how to keep your family’s medical details safe.
Why should protecting my health information be a priority?
If you have ever been a victim of identity theft, you know it can be very unsettling and exhausting to restore your security. And cases like these are on the rise! This even includes the targeting of healthcare data for illegal and unauthorized use. Keeping your accounts secure is important in the fight against thieves looking to take your identity for their gain.
Two-Step Verification, also known as two-factor authentication, for MyChart users is a simple extra step between entering your password and accessing your account. Think of it like a unique pin number for a debit card transaction. With this smart security setting activated, MyChart will automatically generate and send a unique code to your phone or email. Enter that code when prompted, followed by your password and you can access your account confident that your information is even more secure.
What sort of private health information is displayed in MyChart?
MyChart provides online access to your personal medical information from Parkview, including contact information, demographic information, medical histories, provider visits and notes, test and laboratory results, insurance information, and more.
How does Parkview protect this information?
We take great care to ensure your health information is kept private and secure. Access to information is controlled through secure activation codes, personal usernames and passwords. Each person controls their password, and the account cannot be accessed without that password. Unlike conventional e-mail, all MyChart messaging is done while you are securely logged on to our website. MyChart also offers fingerprint authentication and facial recognition for those who want ease and security in the log in process.
What extra steps can patients take to protect their health information?
We recommend a number of things, including:
- Changing passwords frequently
- Using strong passwords that include at least eight characters of lower and uppercase letters, numbers and symbols
- Enabling MyChart Two-Step Verification
How can a patient enable Two Step Verification?
Activating Two-Step Verification is simple and takes just a few moments. You can visit this link to find a “how to” guide with step-by-step instructions.
Just like practicing healthy habits leads to a stronger you, practicing safe steps like creating strong passwords and using two-factor authentication will strengthen the protection of your information.
To learn more about MyChart or create your MyChart account, visit us here. For further questions or assistance, the MyChart Help Center has resources including a patient guide and frequently asked questions.
