The Hidden Security Risk Undermining Healthcare Efficiency

Recent Imprivata research reveals a growing security gap in healthcare as more organisations incorporate mobile devices into their technology fleets. The findings show that 74% of shared-use devices are often left signed in after use, and 79% of staff admit to sharing credentials, putting sensitive patient data at risk. Data security is the most frequently cited challenge for shared-use device adoption, cited by 44% of respondents. Despite growing security threats, 26% of organisations still rely on traditional usernames and passwords to access shared devices.

Clinicians rely on shared devices to streamline workflows, access patient records, and coordinate care in real time. Yet, as a recent VMblog article notes, this reliance introduces a critical paradox: while shared mobile devices are indispensable to modern care delivery, many remain ungoverned and unsecured, creating potential points of failure in already strained clinical environments.

In fact, the report reveals that 87% of clinicians report access issues on shared mobile devices, 23% are lost each year, and 75% of care team members using devices frequently contact the help desk due to being locked out. Too often, clinicians encounter barriers created by the very systems and technologies meant to support them.

“Clinicians should not be burdened with memorising long passwords or juggling multifactor authentication just to reach patient data,” said Claire Reilly, RN, MSc, Imprivata Chief Nursing Informatics Officer, in a recent Imprivata blog. “When authentication is smooth and secure, powered by single sign-on, passwordless authentication, and biometric identification, clinicians gain back time and stay focused on patient care.”

Findings from the report indicate that the solution isn’t more devices or more complex security measures, but more innovative identity and access management (IAM) to secure and optimise their use. Healthcare organisations with comprehensive shared mobile programs see 63% greater ROI, saving an average of £1.1 million compared to £680,000 without such a policy. By integrating passwordless authentication, single sign-on, and strong IAM policies, healthcare organisations can secure devices while empowering their workforce. Effective digital transformation in healthcare depends on trust, resilience, and human-centered design.

Learn how healthcare organisations can improve care quality and reduce cyber risks with shared mobile devices.