Five ways FQHCs and other health facilities can protect themselves against cyberattacks | Viewpoint

For healthcare CIOs, CISOs, and other IT leaders, navigating the complex landscape of cybersecurity challenges is crucial to ensuring the safety and integrity of your organization.

Michelle Padilla

With cybercriminals increasingly targeting health information technology (HIT) systems, effective leadership in the digital age involves mastering the art of cybersecurity.

Here are five ways to protect your Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or other healthcare facility from cyberattacks:

1. Understand the digital battlefield

Recognize your threat landscape. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and understanding the potential vulnerabilities in your HIT systems is the first step in effective cybersecurity leadership.

Utilize tools such as security assessments and penetration testing to get a clear picture of your organization's health and vulnerabilities. This helps in devising proactive defense strategies.

Leverage expertise by partnering with an organization who can provide you and your IT leadership team with detailed security assessments, helping you stay ahead of potential threats.

• Read more: Healthcare data breaches remain most expensive of any industry

2. Establish a cybersecurity-centric culture

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the IT department. Promote security awareness by cultivating a culture where every team member understands the importance of data protection and secure practices.

A vigilant and informed workforce is your first line of defense against phishing and social engineering attacks. Foster open communication by encouraging those within your healthcare facility to discuss cybersecurity openly and frequently to ensure it remains a top priority.

3. Policies, plans and procedures

Regularly audit your cybersecurity measures to identify and address potential weaknesses before they can be exploited by cybercriminals.

If you have not done so already, establish a comprehensive risk management plan to help with anticipating and mitigating cyber threats. If your organization lacks the infrastructure or staff for robust risk management, consider partnering with a managed security service provider to ensure continuous protection.

In addition to a risk management plan, having a well-defined incident response plan ensures that your organization can swiftly and effectively handle any cybersecurity incidents. Regularly test and update this plan to stay prepared for potential attacks.

• Read more: Why hospitals struggle with cybersecurity: ‘We aren’t doing the basics’

4. Invest in cybersecurity training

Empower your healthcare organization through cybersecurity training. This investment in your employees will equip them with the skills to recognize and respond to potential cyber threats. This includes understanding the importance of strong passwords, identifying phishing attempts, and recognizing suspicious activities. A well-trained workforce significantly enhances your organization's defense capabilities.

5. Embrace technology safeguards

Utilize firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption to protect your digital infrastructure. Stay updated with emerging technologies that can further enhance your security measures.

Stay informed by working with security experts who keep abreast of the latest developments in cybersecurity technology and can advise you on the best tools and strategies for your organization.

Conclusion

Mastering leadership in the digital age requires healthcare CIOs, CISOs, and other IT leaders to be adept navigators of the cybersecurity landscape.

By implementing these five strategies, you can safeguard your FQHC or other healthcare facility against cyber threats, ensuring the resilience and success of your organization in an increasingly digital world. Cybersecurity is not just a technical concern; it's a leadership imperative that defines the strength and continuity of modern healthcare systems.

Michelle Padilla is COO and CFO of Telcion, a provider of IT solutions and managed services for the healthcare industry.