What is reference architecture, and how does it help access security healthcare customers?

Reference architecture provides a proven framework for strengthening access security while simplifying clinical workflows in healthcare environments. Learn how it supports secure SSO, Epic integration, and enterprise access management at scale.

A reference architecture is a documented framework that outlines recommended patterns for structuring systems, technologies, and processes to achieve specific outcomes. In software and IT environments, it serves as a blueprint for best practices in system design and integration. Rather than prescribing a rigid configuration, a reference architecture provides a tested model that organizations can adapt to their specific environments and requirements.

In practice, a reference architecture helps healthcare organizations:

• Standardize system design and integration approaches
• Align access security and identity management strategies
• Support efficient and secure clinical workflows
• Maintain compliance while protecting patient data

This foundation is essential for maintaining strong EHR integration security as healthcare organizations connect multiple systems across clinical and operational environments.

How Imprivata supports customers with reference architecture

Imprivata develops reference architecture guides to help healthcare organizations implement and optimize identity and access management strategies. These guides, found through the Imprivata Support and Learning Center, translate complex technical requirements into practical, actionable frameworks that help organizations reduce implementation complexity and improve time-to-value. Beyond documentation, Imprivata continuously engages with customers through educational webinars, success sessions, documentation, and collaborative forums.

This ongoing feedback loop informs product development and ensures solutions evolve alongside real-world clinical and operational needs, resulting in more tailored and effective customer experiences.

Understanding EAM, SSO, and EHR integration with Epic

Enterprise access management refers to the policies, technologies, and processes used to control and monitor user access across an organization. Imprivata Enterprise Access Management with Single Sign-On (SSO), formerly known as Imprivata OneSign, enables users to authenticate once and securely access multiple systems without repeated logins.

An electronic health record (EHR) system is the central platform for managing patient information and clinical documentation. In environments that rely on Epic Systems, integration between access management and SSO is critical to maintaining both efficiency and security across Epic EHR workflows. Imprivata supports this integration by enabling fast, secure access to Epic within clinical workflows, reducing login friction while enforcing strong authentication controls.

This approach helps ensure that clinicians can access the right information at the right time without compromising patient data security or compliance requirements. For organizations evaluating identity strategies, understanding how SSO works with Epic is critical to optimizing both clinician efficiency and access security outcomes.

Why Imprivata is a leader in healthcare access security

Imprivata is widely recognized as a leader in healthcare access security because its solutions are purpose-built for clinical environments. The Imprivata Enterprise Access Management (EAM) platform is designed to balance stringent security requirements with the operational realities of care delivery. By focusing on identity and authentication workflows, Imprivata helps organizations reduce risk, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall user experience.

Our deep integration with leading EHR platforms, including Epic, and our commitment to continuous, purpose-built innovation, position Imprivata as a trusted partner for securing patient data at scale.

Take the next step

Interested in improving access security and streamlining your clinical workflows? Request a demo to see how Imprivata can support your organization’s access management strategy.

If you’re already a customer, contact your sales or customer success representative to learn more about current and upcoming Imprivata Enterprise Access Management capabilities.