Healthcare has been changing in drastic ways lately. Today, it uses various digital tools and systems. The use of computers and the internet has gradually become the norm for patients’ records, diagnoses, and even treatment. Of course, this has sped up much of the work. But then again, it also creates threats.  

Thus, cybersecurity is much more relevant to healthcare these days. During my visit to one of the mystery rooms near me, I learned a lot about it. So, in this article, let’s see why cybersecurity is much necessary for healthcare. And besides that, we will also take a look at risks and provide tips to secure patient data: 

Why Cybersecurity Matters in Healthcare 

Cybersecurity defends computer systems and their networks against hackers. In the health service, it defends patient records and medical systems. Usually, hospitals possess patients’ sensitive information including medical and personal histories. The hacker can cause much damage if he attains it. 

The following are why cybersecurity in healthcare is important: 

1. Protects Patient Information 

Healthcare systems store personal and medical information about patients. This information cannot be disclosed. But when a hacker acquires it, it compromises the confidentiality of patients’ information. 

2. Avoid Money Loss 

A hospital suffers a huge amount of money from a cyber-attack. Further, recovery after a cyber-attack is not easy or cheap. Thus, the stronger the security, the less such loss is seen. 

3. Protects Trust 

Patients entrust their personal details with the health care provider. But data leakages can hurt their trust. Hence, cyber security measures can guard patients’ trust. 

4. Allowing Smooth Systems 

The hospital systems can get stuck during a cyberattack. Thus, treatment would get delayed and increase the number of lives at risk. So, having strong security will ensure that systems continue to run smoothly.  

Kinds of Cyber Threats in Health Care

There are many types of cyber threats that healthcare systems can face: 

1. Ransomware 

Ransomware is a malware. Here, hackers prevent access to a particular system. They only offer the access back when the victim pays a ransom money. Hackers primarily target hospitals as they need swift access to the data of patients. 

2. Phishing Attacks 

Phishing is a trick which makes people give them sensitive information. Here, hackers send emails with a link or an attachment. Now, when one clicks on the link or attachment, it can offer hackers access to the systems. 

3. Data Breaches 

Through data breaches, hackers can access sensitive information. This can include records of patients, and billing information, amongst others. 

4. Insider Threats 

Sometimes staff inadvertently or deliberately cause a security issue. Hence, proper training of staff on cybersecurity keeps this at bay. 

5. Medical Device Hacking 

Many medical devices are connected to the Internet. Hackers can steal control of these devices by taking advantage of weak security. 

Living Examples of Cyber Attacks in the Healthcare Sector

Cyber-attacks on healthcare are not just a possibility but are happening already. A few examples are below: 

1. WannaCry Ransomware Attack (2017) 

The WannaCry Attack of 2017 affected hospitals worldwide. It encrypted computers and sought ransom in return. Thus, many had to reschedule appointments and surgeries in hospitals. 

2. Universal Health Services Attack (2020) 

Universal Health Services, the giant hospital chain in the U.S., was attacked by ransomware. The attack forced staff members to use pen and paper for records. The care of patients was in disarray for days. 

Healthcare Cybersecurity Challenges 

Healthcare systems are hard to secure. There are many challenges. Some of them include the following: 

1. Outdated Systems 

Many hospitals have very old computers. So, they may not have recent security updates. Thus, hackers can easily exploit them. 

2. Lack of Awareness 

Not all health care staff are aware of cyber risks. Some are clicking on phishing emails, leading to attacks. Thus, proper training is essential to prevent this. 

3. Low Budgets 

Most hospitals have limited budgets. But, investing in cybersecurity requires a lot of money. However, the cost of getting over a cyberattack is costlier! 

4. Interconnected Devices 

Most medical devices are connected on the internet. Now, securing all these devices is challenging.  

5.Compliance and Regulations 

Healthcare organizations need to function strictly on the requirements of data protection. This can be very difficult to achieve, especially if the resources are not enough. 

Best Cybersecurity Practices for Healthcare 

Despite all these challenges, there are some improvements one can make: 

1. Regular Software Updates 

Make sure that all your systems and devices have regular updates. In most instances, updates include security patches that rectify earlier loopholes.  

2. Employee Training 

Staff must be trained on the fundamentals of cybersecurity. Educate the staff on how to spot phishing emails and handle data with care. 

3. Passwords 

Start by using different and complex passwords for each of your systems. Furthermore, ask your workers to regularly update their passwords.  

4. Data Encryption 

You can encrypt sensitive data to make it away from the reach of hackers. In case the data gets stolen, it becomes tough for hackers to read it, because of encryption. 

5. Network Security 

Use firewalls and antivirus software to keep the networks safe. Additionally, you can monitor the network activities to check for attacks.  

6. Data Backup 

Regularly backup important data. In case of a ransomware attack, backups can help restore systems without paying a ransom. 

The Future of Cybersecurity in Healthcare 

As technology progresses, so do cyber threats. In the future of healthcare cybersecurity, there will be more of: 

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

AI can help quickly detect and respond to threats. It can analyze big data to find patterns and identify attacks. 

2. Blockchain Technology 

Blockchain can be used to secure patient records. It forms a tamper-proof system for storing data. 

3. More Regulation

The governments can introduce more rules to protect the data of the patient. Thus, healthcare providers will need to update themselves on these changes.  

4. Focus on Patient Safety 

Patient safety will continue to be a top priority in cybersecurity. Hence, hospitals will spend more on the protection of systems and data. 

Conclusion 

Healthcare providers do not have a choice on cybersecurity anymore. Now, it is essential for the protection of patient data. Moreover, it helps to run operations smoothly. While challenges remain, implementing the best practices can help move ahead. 

Hospitals, staff, and government bodies must collaborate to improve their security. This way, they’ll be able to secure patients’ data and be welcomed by the healthcare industry. Today, delivering quality health care requires a threat-free digital environment!

• Country: India