Due to the uptick in cybersecurity threats, organizations are focusing on business continuity efforts and meeting compliance requirements.
The healthcare sector is highly vulnerable to attacks as hackers discover new and innovative ways to exploit evolving technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected cybersecurity in healthcare in a number of different ways.
Of the many risks facing healthcare organizations, cyber threats are now the most common threat. From malicious network traffic and web application attacks to ransomware and phishing attacks, it is vital for organizations to measure their risk and take steps to protect against cyber threats.
With the rise of cybersecurity attacks during COVID, several compliance laws were introduced or amended. For example, the HIPAA Security Rule was relaxed to allow for the use of video conferencing tools. To avoid non-compliance, organizations must offer visibility of their infrastructure, including networks, assets and security controls.
There are many things that organizations in the healthcare sector can do to protect against cybersecurity threats and remain compliant. Here are some of the ways that healthcare organizations can plan for the future:
Before adopting new technology, assess the organization’s current technology and determine where changes and updates can be made. Build security awareness into the organization’s culture to ensure that the entire workforce has a complete understanding of how to avoid cyber threats. Allocate sufficient funds to keep pace with evolving technologies and avoid security gaps.
There are many components that businesses must consider when developing a secure infrastructure. However, the protection of patient data should be prioritized above all else, including over system functionalities like speed. Data protection in healthcare is critical to avoid costly breaches and similar cybercrimes.
Chief information officers (CIOs) and chief information security officers (CISOs) rely heavily on resources provided by healthcare organizations to make strategic and operational decisions on behalf of the business. It is the responsibility of the organization to provide as many resources as possible to aid in the development of information security procedures and policies.
An incident response plan is a healthcare organization’s best chance at defending itself against the effects of a data breach. This detailed set of instructions can help organizations detect, prepare for, respond to and ultimately recover from a wide range of network security issues.
The healthcare industry remains a target for hackers looking to steal large amounts of sensitive patient data. To reduce the risk of data breaches and similar cybercrimes, organizations must continue to keep up with changes and ensure that they remain compliant with all new, existing and amended laws.
Technology has transformed the healthcare sector, which has become increasingly evident since the start of the pandemic. To better assess your current IT ecosystem and prepare for future growth, consider working with a healthcare cybersecurity consultant. Contact Hartman Executive Advisors to request a consultation or to find out more about our strategic business and IT consulting services.