CyberSecurity in Healthcare

Pranav Kumar
|
August 20, 2022

Healthcare is a booming industry also called the "health economy". It includes hospitals and other medical care providers, health insurance companies, clinical laboratories, and medical technology manufacturers. Due to its increasing popularity, cybercrime has become the next big threat that needs to be avoided by healthcare organisations. Most of these cyber-attacks are done to steal valuable patient data or corrupt credentials, or loot patients using fear from ailments they are suffering. 

In a world where we are drowning more and more in data, Cyber security measures for Healthcare Industry with hospital cyber security management services becomes all about protecting clients' data. The term "cybersecurity" is no longer a novelty; however, there are protocols and steps that should be followed by each business to stay cyber-secure. 

Challenges For Cybersecurity In Healthcare

Healthcare is a very sensitive sector and often the most vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Why is this so? The Healthcare industry has multiple challenges which other industries may not have. For example, healthcare organisations have to deal with medical devices, patient data, medical records and so on. These all are the key assets of any healthcare organisation, and if any of them gets compromised, then it can lead to a great loss. This is why Cybersecurity in healthcare becomes crucial.

Here are some of the challenges faced by the healthcare industry:

1. Patient data privacy: Patient data is one of the most sensitive assets in any healthcare organisation. It can be used for identity theft or even blackmailing purposes. So patients' privacy must be maintained at all costs, and it should not get out into the public domain unless authorised by themselves or their legal guardians.

2. Medical device security: Medical devices are being used more frequently these days as compared to earlier times due to advancements in technology and innovation in this field. There are many different types of medical devices available in the market like pacemakers, defibrillators, insulin pumps etc., which are connected to the internet through 

wireless networks or wired connections from hospitals/clinics/homes, where patient/patients are kept under treatment or observation. Hence, securing these medical devices becomes crucial to protect patient data.

3. Malware on health systems: Malware is a software designed specifically for malicious purposes such as stealing personal data or destroying files on computers or networks connected to the internet. Malware can be spread through email attachments, files downloaded from websites or other online sources, or even physical devices like USB drives inserted into computers without proper precautions being taken beforehand first (such as running antivirus software first).

Why is it so difficult for healthcare organisations to protect themselves? There are many reasons:

Lack of resources: Healthcare has traditionally been a low-cost industry (which is good), but it means that companies have less money available for security measures such as firewalls or antivirus software. They also tend to rely more heavily on employees who don't have technical skills.

Fragmented systems: Healthcare providers use multiple systems for different functions, including billing and appointment scheduling systems that aren't fully integrated with patient records or electronic medical records (EMRs). This makes it harder for them to monitor their networks effectively and spot potential problems before they arise.

Older technology: Many healthcare facilities still use legacy systems from decades ago that were designed without security features in mind—and when those systems break down or become obsolete, there's no easy way for them to revive.

Avoiding Security Risk Assessment:To avoid additional expense, organisations avoid committing necessary resources or allot a budget to buy suggested tools for periodic Cyber Security Risk Assessment

Hospital Cyber Security Against Cyber Threats In Healthcare

Healthcare is one of the most important industries in the world. However, healthcare organisations are increasingly facing a growing number of cyber attacks. It's important to have an IT security strategy in place to protect against these attacks and ensure that sensitive data is protected. It's important to protect the privacy and confidentiality of patients' personal information and ensure patients receive the best and most timely care possible.

Here are some cyber security measures you should take:

1. Use multiple levels of authentication

2. Encrypt sensitive data in transit and at rest

3. Deploy an intrusion detection system (IDS) and intrusion prevention system (IPS)

4. Use multi-factor authentication for user access

5. Get a Vulnerability assessment by Cyber Security Experts

Benefits Of Healthcare Cybersecurity

In the world of faster connectivity, virtual consultation and IoT, the Cybersecurity of hospitals and healthcare businesses has definitely become a major concern for healthcare providers, payers and patients. It's one of the most important issues that both consumers and health care providers need to understand and address.

The benefits of Cybersecurity in the healthcare industry are:

Improved Patient Safety - Using secure systems can help reduce errors, improve patient safety and ensure the quality of care.

Reduced Costs - Improved efficiency means lower costs, which is especially important in an era where many hospitals face financial challenges due to the high cost of new technology and other resources needed to provide care for patients.

Enhanced Patient Experience - A more secure system can reduce wait times for patients who need medical attention by providing faster access to records and information about their health status.

Protect patient data: The primary purpose of implementing cyber security measures is to protect patient data from being leaked or stolen by hackers. By protecting your patients' data, you can ensure that they are safe from identity theft and other cyber crimes.

Avoid penalties: Globally, governments have started monitoring and imposing fines on organisations that do not maintain adequate cyber security measures. As per regulations, healthcare providers must maintain high-quality information systems that prevent unauthorised access and disclosure. This includes ensuring that all network equipment used by the organisation has been properly tested and certified as secure by third-party professionals like IT consultants, Cybersecurity Experts or auditors. If there is evidence that an attacker gained access to sensitive data through such systems, then there could be serious consequences for the organisation's reputation and finances. 

Takeaway: Implementing a cyber security risk assessment for your business will allow you to keep your business secure and prevent it from any hacker intrusion. The Healthcare Industry needs to protect its sensitive data and patient records, which determines not only the business continuity but also the long-term financial stability. Having a Cyber Security Policy and regular vulnerability assessment could promote a proactive approach to minimising risks from cyber attacks. Cyber Security is a necessity, not just an option that you can forget about. Hence, if you are looking for Cybersecurity services, you should go ahead and contact Cyber Security Experts at ICDigital, Dubai, today.

If you are in the healthcare business, protect your patient data with tools like DarkTrace, one of the most trusted Cybersecurity Tool in healthcare. 

Pranav Kumar

Excited about digital disruption and exponential impact of emerging technologies; I have a deep passion for technology, business, and progress. I envision a future where an intellectual and responsible use of technology will positively change the future of work, and life.