FDA Offers Guide On Wireless Healthcare Devices

Joseph Conn | ModernHealthcare.com | August 19, 2013

The Food and Drug Administration has published a guide to the use of wireless healthcare devices in healthcare settings.

For providers, one key issue covered is data security, including a recommendation that encryption technologies on the devices, if available, should be activated and used.

“Authentication and wireless encryption play vital roles in an effective wireless security scheme,” according to the FDA.

“Use of the latest up-to-date wireless encryption is encouraged. While most wireless technologies have encryption schemes available, wireless encryption might need to be enabled and assessed for adequacy for the medical device's intended use.”