In 2016, Google teamed up with UChicago Medicine to develop an algorithm that would help physicians treat patients. As part of the agreement, UChicago Medicine shared de-identified patient data with Google and in return was able to access Google’s artificial intelligence.
However, a lawsuit has since been filed against Google and UChicago Medicine, claiming that patient data was not fully de-identified. The lawsuit claims the academic medical center provided Google data from patients that included the date and time patients received services at the hospital, which could allow Google to identify patients.
In response to the criticism and lawsuit, Google said it is prioritizing safety.
“We believe our healthcare research could help save lives in the future, which is why we take privacy seriously and follow all relevant rules and regulations in our handling of health data,” the Google spokesperson told Business Insider. “In particular, we take compliance with HIPAA seriously, including in the receipt and use of the limited data set provided by the University of Chicago.”
More articles on cybersecurity:
State-by-state breakdown of ransomware attacks on healthcare providers
5 recent data breaches caused by human error
Indiana hospital alerts 2,600 patients of human error data breach
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
