For Intellectual & Developmental Disability (IDD) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy agencies, safeguarding client information is paramount. We understand the critical importance of data security at ConnectCare, particularly when dealing with sensitive healthcare information. Our platform is meticulously designed to not only meet but exceed the rigorous standards set forth by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act). This post delves into the security measures and compliance protocols we have in place to protect your data, offering you peace of mind in your day-to-day operations.
State-of-the-Art Data Encryption
One of the cornerstones of ConnectCare's security infrastructure is our use of AES-256 encryption for data at rest. Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with a key size of 256 bits is widely regarded as the gold standard in encryption technology. It is employed extensively by government and military institutions to secure top-secret information, and its robustness ensures that even the most sophisticated attempts at data breaches are thwarted. By encrypting all stored data with AES-256, we ensure that your client information remains confidential and secure against unauthorized access.
Robust Firewall Protection with pfSense
To further fortify our defenses, ConnectCare employs a pfSense firewall which operates around the clock, 365 days a year. pfSense is a powerful, open-source firewall and router software, renowned for its reliability and versatility. It functions not only as a firewall but also as a DHCP server, DNS server, Wi-Fi access point, and VPN server. This multifaceted protection ensures that our network is secure from various threats, providing a safe environment for your data.
SOC 2 Certified Data Center
ConnectCare's data is hosted on a cloud server managed by BlueBridge Networks, a data center that boasts SOC 2 certification. SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) compliance is a rigorous standard developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) to ensure the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of customer data. This certification confirms that BlueBridge Networks adheres to the highest standards of data security, which is crucial for safeguarding sensitive health information.
HITRUST Compliance: Bridging HIPAA and HITECH
Navigating the complexities of HIPAA and HITECH compliance can be daunting, but ConnectCare simplifies this process through HITRUST certification. HITRUST (Health Information Trust Alliance) provides a comprehensive framework for managing risk and demonstrating compliance with HIPAA's security requirements. This certification integrates various security standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring that ConnectCare's security measures are not only thorough but also verifiable by third-party assessors.
Comprehensive Security Measures
BlueBridge Networks, our trusted data center partner, employs a multitude of security measures to protect your data. Their 24/7 Network Operations Center (NOC) continuously monitors security systems, ensuring round-the-clock compliance. Access to the data center is tightly controlled, with proximity card and keypad systems in place to restrict entry to authorized personnel only. Any violation of these protocols triggers alarms monitored by geographically diverse centers. Additionally, video surveillance is employed at all entry points, with recorded archives maintained for 90 days.
Proactive Cybersecurity Strategies
At ConnectCare, we believe in a proactive approach to cybersecurity. BlueBridge Networks' Managed Security layered defense model helps us identify and eliminate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. This model includes:
Regulatory Compliant Network Systems: Ensuring our network complies with HIPAA and other regulatory requirements.
Managed Routers and Firewalls: Continuous management, monitoring, and maintenance of our network's edge routers and firewalls.
Virtual Private Network (VPN): Secure connections routed through the Internet to remote sites or employees.
Managed Intrusion Detection & Protection Service (MIDPS): Monitoring critical network points for suspicious activity and generating alerts.
Managed Traffic Analyzer (MTA): Real-time tracking of network usage to identify potential threats.
Vulnerability Assessments: Conducting on-demand vulnerability scans to identify and remediate network weaknesses.
Physical Security and Environmental Controls
Physical security is just as important as cyber security. BlueBridge Networks employs physical security measures, such as hourly patrols and uniformed lobby security guards, to protect the data center. The data center itself is constructed with reinforced materials and equipped with state-of-the-art fire detection and suppression systems. Environmental controls, including HVAC cooling systems, maintain optimal conditions to prevent overheating and ensure the continuous operation of our servers.
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
At ConnectCare, we are committed to continuously improving our security measures to stay ahead of emerging threats. Our partnership with BlueBridge Networks ensures that we have access to the latest technologies and best practices in data security. By investing in robust power systems, advanced fire protection, and sophisticated environmental controls, we strive to provide a secure, reliable platform for your behavioral health and ABA therapy documentation needs.
Enjoy Top-Tier Data Security with ConnectCare
Data security is a critical aspect of any healthcare service, and ConnectCare is dedicated to providing a secure platform that meets the highest standards of compliance. Our use of AES-256 encryption, pfSense firewall, SOC 2 certified data centers, and HITRUST compliance demonstrates our commitment to protecting your data. By partnering with BlueBridge Networks, we ensure that our security measures are comprehensive and continuously monitored. With ConnectCare, you can focus on delivering quality care to your clients, knowing that their information is safe and secure.
We invite you to learn more about our security measures and how ConnectCare can support your practice. Contact us today to schedule a demo and see firsthand how we can help you achieve your goals while maintaining the highest standards of data security.