Healthcare Professional’s Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude toward Patients’ Data Privacy and Security in Clinical Research

Abstract

Introduction: The privacy and security of healthcare information are essential to maintaining good patient-physician relationships, protecting individuals’ interests, and respecting their dignity and worth. This study assessed healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) knowledge, awareness, and attitudes toward patients’ data privacy and security in clinical research. Methods: The study consisted of a cross-sectional survey in which 108 HCPs’ awareness and knowledge of HIPAA and NCBE rules and regulations were measured, followed by an in-depth semistructured interview to explore HCPs’ attitudes and perspectives. The study was conducted between January and May 2022. Results: Most participants agreed that the IRB/REC rules and regulations strengthened participants’ trust in the researchers, enhanced confidentiality, and improved the privacy and security of patients’ information. HIPPA knowledge was affected by prior participation in research (β: 1.16; p = 0.001) and NCBE knowledge by working on a research project (β: 0.87; p = 0.001), years of work experience (β: 0.35; p = 0.003), and age (β: −0.28; p = 0.04). Participants believed that the nature of research, involvement of inexperienced persons, and human errors could affect patients’ privacy and security in clinical research, which could be improved by limiting the number of personnel who access the data, continuous education, and sending reminders about the rules and regulations. Conclusions: Patients’ data privacy and security remain vital to clinical research. HCPs realize the role of IRB/REC to maintain data privacy and security. Enrollment of HCPs in clinical research and continuous education could improve HCP knowledge of regulatory rules.