It could happen to anyone: Why cybersecurity drives health care's future

Carrie Gluck

The recent cyberattacks on industry titans have reignited national concerns about patient data privacy and the vulnerability of healthcare systems. These attacks haven't just disrupted operations - they've shaken patient trust and exposed sensitive information, affecting surgeries, health record access, prescription refill services, and even digital payments. The implications of such attacks are profound, not only for patient care but also for the trust and reputation of healthcare providers. As these incidents underscore the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures, healthcare providers must proactively safeguard their practices and patients.

Impact on care operations and compliance

The recent cyberattacks have thrown many care operations into disarray. Surgeries have been delayed or canceled, and patient health records have become inaccessible. The chaos even extends to the diversion of ambulances and the inability of retail pharmacies to fill prescriptions, directly affecting patient health and safety. Clinics and hospital systems also face the reality of compliance failures and legal implications that come with security breaches.

Federal committees and ongoing lawsuits have pointed to fundamental lapses in compliance protocols as the root cause of these cyberattacks, with the Senate Finance Committee declaring that a lack of necessary cybersecurity measures contributed to such breaches. These lapses lead to significant operational disruptions and expose healthcare providers to legal repercussions and financial penalties. The fallout from these attacks highlights the fragility of healthcare infrastructure and the critical need for effective cybersecurity measures. The unfortunate reality is that any healthcare provider, clinic, or hospital can be a target.

These cyberattacks expose gaps in healthcare's digital defenses and disrupt critical operations and patient care, erode trust, damage reputations, and cost organizations dearly. Staff are left scrambling with manual tasks while sensitive data hangs in the balance.

The key to weathering these storms lies in proactive preparation. Healthcare providers must continuously update their cybersecurity measures and thoroughly train staff on these protocols. Organizations of all sizes can safeguard patients, data, and staff from these malicious attacks by prioritizing a solid security posture.

Here's where physician leadership becomes crucial. Their role in cybersecurity goes beyond simply following protocols. They can be powerful advocates for change. Physicians and clinics can help safeguard their practices from breaches and build a culture of security by implementing the following tactics:

• Empower your team: Regular cybersecurity training equips everyone in your practice, from physicians to receptionists, to identify and respond to cyber threats. This creates a culture of awareness that becomes your first line of defense.
• Partner with security specialists: Don't go it alone. Cybersecurity experts can conduct comprehensive assessments to identify vulnerabilities in your systems. They can then help implement more robust safeguards to stay ahead of attackers by developing and enforcing robust cybersecurity policies that cover all aspects of digital security, including data encryption, access controls, and regular audits. These policies should align with industry standards and regulatory requirements such as HIPAA and OSHA.
• Fortify your finances: Relying on a single payment method creates a risk. Offering secure alternatives, like encrypted online payments, ensures continued cash flow even if one method is compromised. Practicing revenue diversification helps minimizes disruption and keeps your practice running smoothly.

By making cybersecurity a priority, healthcare providers can reap many benefits. Patients will be more likely to trust a provider who prioritizes data security, fostering stronger relationships and loyalty. A robust cybersecurity posture also safeguards the provider's reputation, preventing breaches and leaks that could damage trust. Finally, effective cybersecurity measures minimize operational disruptions, allowing providers to focus on delivering high-quality care instead of managing technical difficulties.

The road to a secure future

The recent attacks and the inevitability of future ones underscore the urgency of robust cybersecurity measures in healthcare. Physicians, as trusted leaders, have the power to champion change. The industry can build a more resilient and secure future for patient data by prioritizing education, collaboration, and proactive security practices. The time to act is now; taking these steps safeguards patient data and enhances trust, reputation, and operational efficiency in the long run. It is the key to achieving a safer healthcare system.

Carrie Gluck is CISO at Rectangle Health is an industry expert on various Information Security regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices.