ADDRESSING PRIVACY AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN HEALTH INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (IMS)

Abstract

This paper explores the crucial role of privacy and ethics in Health Information Management Systems (HIMS), addressing the inherent challenges and presenting innovative solutions through detailed case studies. We examine the significant privacy concerns, such as data breaches and unauthorized data sharing, alongside ethical issues like informed consent and equitable access to technology. Effective solutions including the Privacy-Preserving Distributed Analytics (PPDA) model and proactive bioethics committees, as demonstrated by institutions like Vanderbilt University Medical Center, illustrate successful strategies for managing these concerns. The paper emphasizes the importance of prioritizing privacy and ethics not merely as compliance requirements but as foundational elements essential to the trustworthiness and effectiveness of HIMS. It advocates for a continuous, proactive approach to address these issues as technology evolves and regulations change. Furthermore, we call for a collaborative effort among policymakers, healthcare providers, technologists, and patients to develop and refine HIMS that uphold the highest standards of privacy, ethics, and accessibility, thus enhancing the quality of care and health outcomes for all stakeholders.