Is Cloud Dental Software Worth It for Tampa Bay Practices

What Cloud Dental Software Changes

Traditional on-premises dental environments may require the practice to maintain servers, local storage, server backups, Windows environments, network infrastructure, software updates, and disaster recovery systems.

With a cloud-based system, more of the application’s infrastructure is hosted by the software provider. That can simplify certain IT responsibilities.

Cloud Does Not Mean No IT

HHS recognizes that covered entities can use cloud services to store or process ePHI when appropriate HIPAA requirements are met. When a cloud service provider creates, receives, maintains, or transmits ePHI on behalf of a covered entity, HHS generally treats the provider as a business associate and requires an appropriate BAA.

The question is not simply, “Is cloud HIPAA compliant?” The better question is whether the cloud arrangement is appropriately configured, contracted, and managed.

Potential Advantages

Less local server hardware can simplify certain environments. Depending on the product, users may have easier access from multiple locations. Vendor-managed infrastructure can shift some maintenance responsibility away from the practice. Cloud systems can also be attractive for growing or multi-location groups.

But There Are Tradeoffs

Cloud software makes your internet connection more important. If the internet connection fails, access to cloud applications may be affected.

Practices should consider primary internet, backup internet, Wi-Fi reliability, network security, vendor uptime, data export, backup and recovery, BAA requirements, and service-level agreements.

Cloud Does Not Eliminate Cybersecurity

Your practice still needs strong authentication, access controls, endpoint protection, secure networks, staff security training, risk analysis, and backup and recovery planning.

HHS states that organizations using ePHI in cloud environments still need to conduct risk analysis and implement appropriate safeguards.

Is Cloud Right for a Tampa Bay Practice?

Cloud may be attractive for new practices, multi-location groups, practices wanting reduced server maintenance, practices with reliable internet, and practices prioritizing flexibility.

An on-premises environment may still make sense for practices with legacy applications, specialized imaging, specific integrations, existing server infrastructure, or local processing requirements.

Before Moving to Cloud Software, Review

Check the areas that still need review at this practice, then build the list.