Page 60 - 2021 MHA Start-up Guide

STAYING CONNECTED ON THE ROAD

Mobile healthcare programs have the same connectivity needs as brick-and-mortar clinics but
contend with a host of complicating factors. Wireless communication, while flexible, is subject
to coverage reliability and security issues . So, how can you ensure that you’ll be able to transfer
data when at a service site? And how do you protect client information during transfer?

Here are some factors to consider when outfitting your vehicle for connectivity.

VPN for Privacy
One option for wireless information security is a virtual private network (VPN), which leverages
encryption and authentication to maintain message integrity and privacy. Think of a VPN as a
secure tunnel running inside the network connection .
Use a 4G/5G
broadband router with VPNs can be implemented using hardware or software but may be
sensitive to short delays during transmission . Hardware tends to be
more than one cellular faster and more secure. VPN security will work across almost any
provider. Unless your area has type of network connect: satellite, WiFi, wireless broadband, or
exceptional and very reliable wired Ethernet .
cellular coverage by one carrier,
If you’re working with a traditional home institution, such as a hos-
you may need to add pital or health system, they may have specific VPN equipment and

service from more software requirements with which you must comply. Additionally, VPN
than one carrier. equipment may have special space requirements. Consider this when
you are working with your vendor to design your network .

Remember, all the technology in the world can only take you so far when securing client informa-
tion . Good password management is the real key to securing information . Be sure to follow your
organization’s password rules . If you still need guidance on secure password creation, visit the
National Institute of Standards and Technology at nist .gov . Also, consider creating a policy for the
distribution of passwords for staff, clients and guests.

Wireless Modems and 4G/5G Broadband Routers 2
1
The most common type of connection in mobile health vehicles is through a wireless modem —
the same technology used in cell phones . In a personal-use capacity, these devices connect via
a USB port or wireless connection (i .e ., in the case of a WiFi hotspot) . They may also be included
as part of a 4G/5G broadband router . The router receives a signal from one or more modems and
makes the network available to multiple devices . Some routers can aggregate the bandwidth
(connection speed) of multiple modems or even mitigate system failure by using modems from
different cellular providers.

Most mobile applications will require more than one USB modem or connection to support the
needs of a mobile health vehicle. As a bonus many wireless broadband routers have built-in VPN
technology, though you will need to make sure it is compatible with your home base’s VPN system.

Things to keep in mind about broadband routers:
• Certain broadband routers can also function as WiFi hotspots on board your mobile health
vehicle . However, you will still need to use antennas throughout the vehicle to support your
58 needs . MOBILE HEALTH CARE PROGRAM STAR T-UP GUIDE