Managing cybersecurity risk in healthcare settings

Cybersecurity attacks have been steadily increasing in the healthcare sector over the past decade. Health data is a valuable source of reliable and permanent personal information making it an attractive target. Institutions that have faced limited cybersecurity funding must now augment their approach to combat this threat. The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the connection of physical operational devices to digital networks allowing for communication between devices. In the healthcare setting, this includes patient monitoring, diagnostics, and even robotic surgery devices. This increased connectivity increases the importance of agile and robust cybersecurity measures. A progressive approach must involve collaboration between information technology, clinical, and administrative leaders to be successful. Adequate protection of patient data and the integrity of digital infrastructure must be a priority mandate at the enterprise level.