Cloud Security, Healthcare and HIPAA

Cybersecurity for Healthcare

Cyberattacks on hospitals, clinics, and health technology platforms are on the rise, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. When sensitive medical data is exposed or stolen, it can lead to identity theft, insurance fraud, and even compromised patient care. Hackers target healthcare organizations because PHI is incredibly valuable. Unlike credit card numbers, which can be changed, health records contain permanent information—like diagnoses, Social Security numbers, and insurance details—that can be used for years.

That’s why organizations covered by HIPAA must take cybersecurity seriously. The HIPAA Security Rule requires them to safeguard PHI through administrative, physical, and technical controls. While the rule itself hasn’t changed much since 2003, regulators like the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) expect organizations to keep pace with today’s threats. Strategies that should be implemented: strong access controls, regular risk assessments, encryption, and even penetration testing. The updated HIPAA rule requires annual penetration tests.

Run regular scans (at least quarterly) of all systems, including medical devices, EHRs, and remote access tools
Prioritize risks based on potential impact to Protected Health Information (PHI).
Create a clear Incident Response Plan (IRP) that outlines what happens when a breach or attack occurs.
Invest in tools, training, and testing may feel like a burden, especially for smaller providers, but it’s essential for protecting your patients and your reputation.