Some of this information is of a sensitive nature and would cause problems if it were revealed to family, employers, or the public. Billing records This information used to be stored in filing cabinets on paper. Increasingly, computer systems are replacing or being added to the filing system for billing and record keeping. Patient data is more centralized. The potential for misuse increases with the shear quantity of data that can be stored in a computer file.
Electronic data is more vulnerable to unauthorized changes or transfer of data.
Using computer networks, it is possible to change data without even entering the building where the records are kept. Files that are not protected may be changed or copied by unauthorized people. Databases of patient information can be used to focus in on specific patients according to location or disease type, making them useful for marketing or malicious targeting. Those in charge of medical information systems are in a position of great responsibility regarding the ethical use of data collected from patients. The Electronic Privacy Information Center provides an overview of Medical Privacy Issues.