Mobile Access: Protecting Patient Care Together

We all rely on mobile devices to help us care for our patients. But since these devices can be a top target for cyberattacks and data theft, it's essential that we protect ourselves and our patients.

To protect sensitive patient information and follow health care security regulations, we have implemented new mobile services practices through Microsoft Intune.

We know some of these changes, such as restrictions on copy and paste, can be a bit inconvenient. These safeguards are in place to reduce risks and keep our patients, providers, and organization safe. Our goal is to protect and not to create barriers.

Here are some more details about the new safeguards and how they work

Who Is Affected

These safeguards apply to all exempt employees and approved non-exempt employees who use their own phone or tablet for work.

Why We Need Protections

Phones and tablets make it easier to check email, look at calendars, and stay connected. But personal devices are also a common way private information can be lost or stolen.

Because we care for children, protecting their information is critical. To help, we use a system called Microsoft Intune. It protects the work side of your phone while leaving your personal side private.

What’s Protected vs. What’s Private

Protected by Cook Children’s: Outlook, Teams, and other work apps with patient or work data.

Private to you: Photos, texts, contacts, personal apps, and personal email.

Key Safeguards

• Copy/paste is limited – you can’t move patient information from work apps into personal apps such as iMessage or Notes.

• Your phone must be updated – old or unsupported devices can’t connect.

• Multi-factor authentication is required – this adds extra protection to your account.

• Suspicious logins are blocked – if something looks risky, access will be stopped.

Why This Matters

These safeguards are in place to:
• Keep children’s health information safe.
• Give families peace of mind that their child’s privacy is protected.
• Reduce the chance of accidental HIPAA violations.
• Keep Cook Children’s trusted and compliant.

Final Word

Using your personal device for work is optional, but this use is approved for exempt and certain non-exempt employees. When you do, remember:
• Cook Children’s protects the work side of your device.
• The personal side of your device stays private.
• These protections may feel inconvenient, but they protect children, families, and you.

If something about your mobile access isn’t working right, contact the ServiceDesk at 682-885-7999 or ServiceDesk@cookchildrens.org.