Data Protection for Medtech Startups
Data protection is a non negotiable aspect that any startup, regardless of their profile, should prioritize. Our experience in working with clients from different corners of the world indicates that startups reach full growth when they understand that the data they hold not only is their biggest asset but also their top priority.
The medical technology industry is seeing an astonishing growth, and a wide range of connected devices with the potential to improve our lives are developed each year. It is more important than ever to focus on the protection of patients’ personal data gathered during the development and use of medical devices.
A plethora of data, many times shared by patients without awareness on the potential implications, has eased the possibilities for medtech manufacturers of bringing out novel ways to improve patients’ health.
When consent is given for the initial collection purpose, the raw data can be used as is. However, one very common way that facilitates the development of new technologies is the reuse of health data beyond the purpose for which it was collected. This can be done through anonymization, a process through which personal information is either eliminated or irreversibly obfuscated within data sets. When done correctly this is a safe way of reusing data while reducing or eliminating the risk of patients’ re-identification.
When anynomization hinders research and the context is crucial to the development of new technologies, pseudonymization or a combination between the two, comes second on the list.
But whether anonymization is an option or not, cybersecurity should be integrated by default in the design and development processes and must be considered at every juncture in a medtech manufacturing business
A few ideas about what you could do if you are a medtech manufacturer are:
Conducting risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in the device you are building and the systems you are using throughout the design process.
Using secure coding standards to reduce software vulnerabilities. Make sure that all code is regularly reviewed and tested for security issues.
Using solid encryption methods to protect patients’ data, both when it’s stored and when it’s transmitted as a way to prevent unauthorized access.
Implementing strict access controls and authentication systems to limit who can access the sensitive data
Last but definitely not least, don’t forget about educating your staff on the importance, the reasons and the implications of data protection.
Digital innovation doesn’t have to come at the expense of data protection and privacy.