Implementing interoperable secure health information systems

Ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of individuals has made security an indispensable component of health information systems. Delivery of healthcare services beyond the enterprise level to the regional, national or cross-border area places new challenges for security implementation. We review the current status and uptake of security measures in healthcare settings across European countries and examine in more detail some of the leading eHealth applications. Drawing on the findings of this analysis, we propose a generic model for streamlining the security implementation process on any level -local, regional, national or cross-border. Finally, we address the future prospects and requirements for advancing secure delivery of healthcare services across European borders.