Steiermärkische Kranken­anstalten­gesellschaft mbH shares highly sensitive data in a secure environment

The Challenge

Simplified data exchange of highly sensitive patient data

As part of its digitalisation efforts, KAGes operates in the challenging space between the necessary security measures for handling confidential health data and the simultaneous need for easy access to this data for all authorised individuals. While data access for employees must be time-efficient and user-friendly, data protection, confidentiality, and integrity must be ensured at all times.

In addition to GDPR compliance, KAGes must adhere to other legal frameworks. For example, during the introduction of the electronic health record (ELGA), a certification according to ISO 27001 was required. Further regulations are driven by recent legal updates such as the Network and Information Security Act (NISG).

KAGes deals with highly sensitive data, sometimes involving large volumes. The exchange of this data occurs both with large healthcare providers, who are connected to KAGes' IT systems via interfaces, and with smaller providers, who lack the capacity for encrypted data transfer.

The goal was to simplify not only external data exchange but also internal access capabilities. Therefore, the objective was to consolidate all solutions onto a single platform. In this context, KAGes was searching for a tool that could guarantee both data security and quick, simple access.

"The onboarding process was so simple from the start that no additional support from our IT helpdesk was required." Prof. Dr. Grasser, Head of IT Infrastructure Department

The Solution

Seamless integration and quick rollout

After an extensive market research, KAGes chose FTAPI Software GmbH, which impressed not only with its technical expertise but also with its in-depth industry knowledge. FTAPI also stands out with its comprehensive range of services: by consolidating several previous standalone solutions into a single platform, KAGes was able to simplify its system landscape in a sustainable manner.

With the centrally rolled-out solution, KAGes implemented an easy-to-use and user-friendly tool that is now available to all authorised personnel.

To ensure smooth implementation and optimal operation, KAGes worked closely with FTAPI to clarify the relevant processes and application areas in advance. Even before the rollout, Group Policies and user management were defined via Microsoft Active Directory.

Thanks to the seamless integration of FTAPI into employees' daily workflows, the new platform was actively in use from day one. FTAPI has also become the standard in new departments. "The onboarding of new users was so simple from the beginning that it is now managed through the internal IT training portal, and no additional support is required from our IT helpdesk," emphasises Prof. Dr. Michael Georg Grasser, Head of the IT Infrastructure Department at KAGes' Directorate of Technology and IT.

The Result

Numerous application areas

The application areas of FTAPI within KAGes cover both the medical and nursing fields, as well as the technical sector, corporate communications, and interfaces with other healthcare providers. When files are downloaded by the counterpart, KAGes receives a confirmation, allowing the organisation to keep track of data usage.

With FTAPI, medical reports, patient histories, and other patient data are securely and encryptedly exchanged. Even external, especially smaller healthcare providers, who do not use encrypted data transfer themselves, can now send and submit data securely.

In the technical field, FTAPI significantly simplifies daily operations at KAGes: Large project files, such as CAD drawings or construction and renovation plans, are securely stored in FTAPI SecuRooms and made available to all project participants.

In terms of corporate communication, KAGes uses FTAPI to exchange print data, photo, and video files with printing companies, publishers, and other service providers.

The Outlook

Tackling new challenges together

Since the introduction of FTAPI, colleagues regularly approach the IT helpdesk to discuss new potential use cases for FTAPI. "The staff continually discover new ways to apply FTAPI. We are thrilled that this solution has received such a positive response," says Prof. Dr. Michael Georg Grasser, Head of the IT Infrastructure Department at KAGes' Directorate of Technology and IT.

In close collaboration with FTAPI support, solutions and possibilities are explored to implement the new tasks quickly, efficiently, and securely.

"We are thrilled that this solution has received such a positive response." Prof. Dr. Grasser, Head of IT Infrastructure Department