Mobile devices (including smartphones and tablets) are increasingly being used by care providers to access and manage care data. These devices are now as powerful as traditional computers, and as they leave the safety of a fixed working environment, they often need additional protection.
There are several steps you can take to protect mobile devices and tablets:
Some care providers allow staff to use their own devices to access and manage data. A Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) approach can increase flexibility and reduce costs when compared to providing devices for staff.
However, it also creates several legal and security risks and issues that need to be carefully considered and managed. Thought should be given to what data can be accessed from the device, how that access is managed, and agreeing on a policy with staff for the use of personal mobile devices and tablets for work purposes and how to protect them.
We have guidance on how to choose a mobile device which works for your organisation and also on Mobile Device Management Software.