Gaming Health IT Security Systems

Protecting patient privacy and security is no game, but learning about it can be.

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT unveiled a new video game to help train medical personnel about privacy and security risks and responsibilities as they begin using health IT systems, ModernHealthcare.com reported Tuesday.

The game is produced jointly by ONC and the Health and Human Services Department’s Health Resources and Services Administration, ModernHealthcare reports. The game, demonstrated in Washington on Tuesday during National Health IT Week, is available beginning Wednesday on the ONC website.

A security shield glows more brightly as players answer scenario-based questions correctly, and begins to crack with incorrect answers. Answer questions correctly and you get rewards such as office furniture or a TV for the practice break room. Correct answers also open security tips throughout the game.

Laura Rosas of ONC's Office of the Chief Privacy Officer recommended the game for new employees -- or as a component of ongoing health IT privacy and security training, according to ModernHealthcare.