The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is proposing updates to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) to address increasing data breaches and cyberattacks in the healthcare sector, which have significant implications for mobile apps and APIs that handle electronic protected health information (ePHI). These updates aim to enhance the security of patient data by enforcing stricter cybersecurity measures.
Here's a summary of how the proposed HIPAA rules apply to mobile apps and APIs:
● Data Encryption: The new rules mandate the encryption of protected health information (PHI)13. This means that data must be encrypted end-to-end, so that even if intercepted, it remains unreadable to unauthorized individuals1. This is particularly crucial for mobile applications, as they often operate over potentially insecure networks1.
● Multifactor Authentication (MFA): The proposed rules require the implementation of multifactor authentication (MFA), which enhances security by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access to sensitive systems134. This is essential for mitigating unauthorized access to mobile apps and APIs that manage patient data4. Adaptive MFA, which adjusts requirements based on risk factors, can further strengthen this security layer4.
● Network Segmentation: Healthcare organizations will be required to segment their networks to contain potential breaches and limit lateral movement within systems34. This involves isolating sensitive patient data in restricted segments to reduce the risk of widespread exposure during a cyber incident4. This practice is particularly relevant for mobile applications that may connect to various backend services4.
● Comprehensive Risk Analysis: Regular assessments will be mandated to identify vulnerabilities within healthcare IT infrastructures5. This proactive approach is essential for both mobile app developers and healthcare providers to ensure compliance with cybersecurity protocols and to address emerging threats effectively5.
Implications for Mobile App Development:
● Compliance Requirements: Developers must ensure their applications comply with the new HIPAA regulations56. This includes implementing robust encryption protocols and MFA systems, which builds trust with users and protects against potential legal repercussions arising from data breaches56.
● Design Considerations: Security measures must be integrated into the design phase, ensuring all aspects of the application are secure and compliant with HIPAA standards6. This includes adopting best practices like role-based access control (RBAC) and continuous monitoring for unusual access patterns67.

Additional Key Points:
● The new rules would apply to all ePHI created, received, maintained, or transmitted by a covered entity or business associate8.
● Regulated entities must also protect the electronic information systems that create, receive, maintain, or transmit ePHI and those that otherwise affect its confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
● A written technology asset inventory and a network map of its electronic information systems will be required.
● A comprehensive written assessment of potential risks and vulnerabilities to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI will be required.

Relevant Links:
● https://approov.io/market/mhealth/

• Approov All That We Let In https://approov.io/info/all-that-we-let-in-hacking-30-mobile-health-apps-and-apis
• HHS Releases Notice of HIPAA Security Rule Update: https://www.healthcareitnews.com/news/hhs-releases-notice-hipaa-security-rule-update

● Enhancing Patient Data Security with Advanced Network Solutions: https://medicalresearch.com/enhancing-patient-data-security-with-advanced-network-solutions-in-healthcare/
● HIPAA-Ready Apps: Navigating Compliance for Healthcare Solutions: https://neklo.com/blog/hipaa-compliant-apps
● HIPAA Rules Update Proposed to Combat Healthcare Data Breaches: https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/hipaa-update-healthcare-data/
● HIPAA, Health Information Privacy & Security Compliance: https://www.komahonylaw.com/hipaa-health-information-privacy-security-compliance/
● Balancing Security with Accessibility for Healthcare Professionals: https://logicloom.in/balancing-security-with-accessibility-for-healthcare-professionals-a-comprehensive-guide/
● Securing Healthcare Data in 2024: The Critical Role of Zero Trust: https://www.phimed.com/securing-healthcare-data-in-2024/
These proposed updates to HIPAA are a critical response to the escalating cybersecurity threats facing the healthcare sector. By enforcing stricter security measures, HHS aims to significantly enhance the protection of patient data. For mobile app developers, this means adapting their practices to meet these new standards while ensuring user trust and safety remain paramount.