Patient Portal Security Concerns Hinder Adoption, Survey ⁤finds

Updated May 30, 2025

A recent⁢ survey by LexisNexis Risk Solutions indicates that data security substantially impacts patient adoption of online⁢ portals.These portals are designed to allow patients access to medical records and manage their healthcare.

Teh survey found that 33% of respondents use a ⁤patient ⁤portal less than ⁣once a month, while 16% have never accessed one. The primary concern among non-users is the‍ security ⁢of their⁣ data, ⁣with nearly half expressing a lack of ‍confidence in patient portal security, compared to ⁣only 11% of users.

The survey⁢ of more than 3,000 adults revealed that over⁤ 60% of respondents use patient portals to view test results, and half use them for scheduling appointments. ‍Though, 36% of‍ non-users prefer direct dialog with healthcare providers, and 27% are unaware of the portals or how to access them. Seventeen ⁢percent cited⁣ security concerns as a reason for not using the portals.

Concerns about data security are consistent across different types of portals. Seventy-seven percent‍ of health⁤ insurance portal users feel their data is secure, compared to only 35% of non-users. Similarly, 80% of provider portal users trust their data’s safety, while only 37% of ⁢non-users agree.

These findings come amid rising cybersecurity threats targeting the healthcare sector. Cybercriminals are increasingly breaching sensitive patient data due to the⁢ high value ⁢of medical records.

The survey also revealed a discrepancy between consumer preferences and cybersecurity best practices. Nearly 60% of respondents prefer usernames and passwords for identity verification, despite their vulnerability to hacking.

Cybersecurity experts recommend multi-factor authentication to enhance security.Adam Mariano, president and general manager of healthcare at LexisNexis Risk Solutions, emphasized the need for complex, layered security protocols to enhance user trust and convenience.

“Our report indicates a disconnect between consumers’⁢ perception of effective identity verification and the reality of how often usernames and passwords are compromised,” Mariano said. “This highlights an urgent need for more⁣ sophisticated, layered security protocols‍ that enhance user trust and convenience without unnecessarily increasing friction.”

What’s next

Healthcare organizations may need to re-evaluate⁤ their ⁢security measures to increase patient trust and encourage greater⁤ adoption⁢ of ⁣patient portals, ⁣focusing on multi-factor authentication and clear communication about security ‍protocols.