INFORMATION CLASSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Comparison and Contrast between Information Classification Requirements of Two Organizations - A Hospital & a University

Comparison and Contrast between Information Classification Requirements of Two Organizations - A Hospital and a University

Introduction

This discussion will attempt to engage in a comparison and contrasting of the information classification requirements of a hospital and a university. In order to do so adequately, the discussion will compare the two in terms of information types, major threats that merit consideration, value, confidentiality, privacy and legality. In addition, the discussion will also recommend information classification systems for each and provide justifications for the same.

Information Types

The information types that are present in the case of a Hospital generally pertain to the patient's condition and can be expected to include personal information about the patients. In addition, information that is relevant for a hospital also generally includes information regarding the personnel employed in the hospital (full-time and part-time alike). The information regarding hospital personnel can be of a critical nature since it is extensive and in-depth (Bhatti, Samuel, Eltabakh, Amjad & Ghafoor, 2007). For instance, it is common-place for sensitive documents such as those generated in the conduction of (and as a result of) psychological-evaluations, to be a part of an employee's file. In the case of the employees and the patients, the accuracy and authenticity of the information is critical.

In comparison, a university's information is generally less critical since the information collected about the personnel in the university (students, faculty and support staff alike) is of a nature since it does not pertain to the personnel's personally and focuses more on the documentation of their knowledge, skills and abilities (Broughton & Slavic, 2007). However, the need for authenticity and accuracy in information for a university is just as undeniable as it is for a hospital. This is because of the fact that a university is responsible for providing services that require the involvement of qualified and skilled personnel. A misstatement of the documentation of an individual's knowledge, skills and abilities can lead to extensive collateral damage in the form of lost time and resources; both of which are not expendable.

Threats

One of the most notable threats that exist to adequate information collection and classification in a hospital setting is that there is an excess of information. In a hospital, decisions rest on the thin line that divides life and death (Casamayor, Godoy & Campo, 2010). As a result, modern day healthcare practice requires the consideration of as much information as possible so that informed decisions can be made. However, this often becomes a challenge when an excess of information makes it complicated to reach a sound decision that can be relied upon to produce the right results. Often the simultaneous presence of multiple data can result in a conflict of opinions amongst healthcare practitioners. Another threat to adequate information classification in a hospital setting is often observed in cases where the patient does not consent to the provision of all relevant ...