Data Security Concerns Hinder Patient Portal Use

A survey by LexisNexis Risk Solutions found that concerns over data security are a major barrier to patient portal adoption. Seventeen percent of non-users avoid portals due to security worries, while nearly half lack confidence in portal safety—compared to just 11% of users. Although portals offer benefits like viewing test results, scheduling appointments, and messaging doctors, many patients rarely use them. Thirty-three percent log in less than once a month; 16% have never used one. Preferences for speaking to a human (36%) and lack of awareness (27%) are also key reasons for low usage. Trust in data protection differs sharply: 80% of provider portal users feel secure, versus 37% of non-users. Despite growing cybersecurity threats in healthcare, 60% of users still prefer passwords over safer options like multi-factor authentication, highlighting a gap in awareness around secure access methods.

04-06-2025