As the healthcare system has become more technology-driven, there has been a significant increase in the use of cloud-based and internet applications for delivering facilities. Unfortunately, this has also resulted in an increase in cybersecurity-related risks including breaches, scams, and ransomware attacks which have made the healthcare system incredibly vulnerable.
The healthcare industry faces a variety of cybersecurity challenges, ranging from malware that can compromise patient privacy to distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks that can disrupt patient care. The unique nature of the healthcare industry makes it particularly vulnerable to cyber-attacks because they can have consequences beyond financial loss and privacy breaches.
For example, ransomware is a type of malware that can be especially damaging to hospitals because it can result in the loss of patient data, which can put lives at risk. Therefore, it is very essential for healthcare industries to be vigilant and take necessary steps to protect their systems from cyber threats to ensure that patients' confidential data and lives are not put at risk.
Following the matter, last month, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a detailed report in which it illustrated certain guidelines against growing concerns about cybersecurity, specifically for medical devices.
The guidelines require manufacturers to submit a plan for addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities and to design processes to ensure cyber security.
1. The manufacturers have to submit a plan for monitoring and addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities in a reasonable time frame after market release. The plan should include procedures for coordinated vulnerability disclosure.
2. Manufacturers must design and maintain processes to ensure that the device and related systems are cyber-secure.
These guidelines are particularly important for devices that use wireless communications, as they are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
FDA said that by following these guidelines, manufacturers can help ensure the safety and security of patients who use their medical devices.
A recent joint report by Censinet, KLAS, and the American Hospital Association (AHA) disclosed that most healthcare organizations are reactive rather than proactive in identifying cybersecurity threats.
The report found that organizations have low coverage in the supply chain, asset, and risk management, with over 40% not compliant with response and recovery planning with suppliers and third-party providers. These reports send a high alert to healthcare industries since cyber threats are advancing every single day becoming more sophisticated and difficult to tackle
