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Security Best Practices

CareLog implements multiple security layers to protect patient health information and ensure system integrity.

Authentication

Password Security

Requirements:

  • Minimum 6 characters (recommended 12+)
  • Unique passwords per user
  • Regular password updates encouraged

Best Practices:

  • Use strong, complex passwords
  • Don't share passwords
  • Change default passwords immediately
  • Enable password managers
  • Avoid common passwords

Login Security

  • Session-based authentication
  • Automatic logout after inactivity
  • Failed login attempt tracking
  • IP address logging
  • Secure session management

Authorization

Role-Based Access Control

  • Each user assigned specific role
  • Permissions based on role
  • Principle of least privilege
  • Regular permission reviews

Data Access Controls

  • Patients can only view own data
  • Medical staff access patient records
  • Family members have limited access
  • Sensitive data protection
  • Audit trail for all access

Data Protection

Encryption

  • Secure data storage
  • Protected data transmission
  • Encrypted sensitive fields
  • Secure backup encryption

Data Privacy

  • Sensitive health information flags
  • Role-based data visibility
  • Privacy controls for patients
  • HIPAA-aligned practices

System Security

Audit Logging

  • All user actions logged
  • Access attempts tracked
  • Modifications recorded
  • Security events monitored
  • Admin review capabilities

Account Security

  • Account disable functionality
  • No account deletion (maintains audit trail)
  • Regular account reviews
  • Suspicious activity monitoring

Network Security

Access Controls

  • Secure authentication required
  • Session management
  • HTTPS recommended for production
  • IP address tracking

API Security

  • Authentication required for API access
  • Rate limiting (recommended)
  • Input validation
  • Error handling without information leakage

Backup and Recovery

Data Backup

  • Regular automated backups
  • Secure backup storage
  • Encrypted backup files
  • Retention policy enforcement

Disaster Recovery

  • Backup restoration procedures
  • Data integrity verification
  • Recovery time objectives
  • Business continuity planning

Compliance

Healthcare Regulations

  • Privacy protection measures
  • Data access logging
  • Secure data handling
  • Audit trail maintenance

Security Standards

  • Regular security assessments
  • Vulnerability management
  • Incident response procedures
  • Security update processes

Security Monitoring

Admin Responsibilities

  1. Daily Monitoring

    • Review audit logs
    • Check failed login attempts
    • Monitor user activities
    • Verify system health
  2. Weekly Tasks

    • Review user accounts
    • Check backup status
    • Analyze security trends
    • Update security policies
  3. Monthly Tasks

    • Comprehensive security audit
    • Permission review
    • Security training updates
    • Vulnerability assessment

Incident Response

Security Incident Types

  • Unauthorized access attempts
  • Data breach suspicions
  • Account compromises
  • System anomalies

Response Procedures

  1. Detection: Monitor audit logs and alerts
  2. Containment: Disable compromised accounts
  3. Investigation: Review audit logs and timeline
  4. Recovery: Restore from backups if needed
  5. Documentation: Record incident details
  6. Prevention: Update security measures

User Security Responsibilities

All Users

  • Protect login credentials
  • Log out after sessions
  • Report suspicious activity
  • Follow security policies
  • Complete security training

Admins

  • Regular security reviews
  • Monitor audit logs
  • Enforce security policies
  • Manage user accounts securely
  • Maintain backup procedures

Medical Staff

  • Access only necessary records
  • Protect patient privacy
  • Secure workstations
  • Follow data handling procedures

Patients

  • Use strong passwords
  • Mark sensitive information appropriately
  • Report unauthorized access
  • Protect account credentials

Security Checklist

Initial Setup

  • [ ] Change all default passwords
  • [ ] Configure backup system
  • [ ] Review user roles and permissions
  • [ ] Enable audit logging
  • [ ] Configure session timeouts
  • [ ] Set up admin alerts

Regular Maintenance

  • [ ] Review audit logs weekly
  • [ ] Update passwords quarterly
  • [ ] Review user accounts monthly
  • [ ] Test backup recovery quarterly
  • [ ] Conduct security training annually
  • [ ] Perform security audits semi-annually