Random Thoughts

Spring has arrived, bringing with it the promise of warmer weather, blooming flowers, and, inevitably, spring showers. While the sound of rain tapping against your window might be soothing, the potential havoc it could wreak on your computer systems is far from comforting. As we approach summer, it's essential to ensure that your business data is adequately protected, regardless of whether it resides in the cloud or on local servers.

Despite the increasing prevalence of cloud-based software solutions, many practices still rely on server-based systems, leaving their data vulnerable to loss or corruption. So, where exactly is your data, and how well is it protected?

Creating a comprehensive data inventory is the first step towards safeguarding your valuable information. Conducting a unit-by-unit checkup will bring visibility to all technology within your business that contains data. Without a clear understanding of where your data is located, you'll be ill-prepared to recover it in the event of a disaster—cue lightning and the scammers who prey on unsecured data.

Take, for example, practice management systems. While they may come equipped with backup solutions, their functionality and reliability should not be taken for granted. When was the last time your backups were verified? Is there a documented record of backup schedules, including what devices they're stored on and any error messages encountered? Without proper documentation, you run the risk of relying on outdated backups, potentially leading to unnecessary data loss.

Similarly, imaging systems, such as PACs, are often overlooked when it comes to backup solutions. While cloud-based PACs offer a convenient option for data storage, many practices still rely on onsite solutions, mistakenly assuming that backups are being performed automatically. However, the loss of critical medical imaging data, such as X-rays, can have far-reaching consequences, especially in legal matters where the production of data is required.

Beyond practice management and imaging systems, other computers within your business, such as accounting systems and doctors' desktops, likely contain valuable data. Engage with your IT professionals to develop a comprehensive data protection plan, ensuring that all server-based data is backed up securely in the cloud. Additionally, consider transitioning to cloud-based PACs to safeguard your imaging data effectively.

Remember, your business data is only as good as your last backup. By taking proactive measures to protect your data, you can mitigate the risk of data loss and ensure the continuity of your practice, come rain or shine.