The Problem
Research Collaboration and HIPAA Compliance Are in Constant Tension
Academic medical centers share PHI with research partners, grant agencies, and affiliated institutions constantly. Each data-sharing agreement creates new exposure. Traditional security models cannot track or restrict data once it leaves your systems.
IRB Approval is Not Protection
IRB-approved data sharing does not guarantee that partners handle PHI correctly after receipt.
De-Identification Can Be Reversed
De-identified datasets can be re-identified when combined with data from collaborating institutions.
Researchers Work Outside Controls
Researchers often work from personal devices or off-campus networks that fall outside institutional controls.