Cyberattacks are becoming all too common as more information is being stored online. Something many patients don’t realize is that even the healthcare industry is at risk to these attacks, and very sensitive information can be compromised. If hospitals are storing such private information, why are security breaches so common?
Problems in hospital cybersecurity first start in the devices that are being used. Many providers are still using medical devices that are made by companies that are no longer in business, and are using old software that hasn’t been updated in years. This old technology leads to gaping security holes as well as increases the likelihood of being hacked. This old software also increases the chances of human error as there is more reliance on human interference.
Human error is one of the top reasons for cyber breaches, and if hospitals know this, why is it happening so often? To start, many hospitals don’t have a team that is devoted solely to cybersecurity and making sure that information is being stored securely. Many providers only bring in cybersecurity professionals when a breach occurs, but that is the extent of having an employee that is fully knowledgeable in how the software works. In fact, most providers are unaware of which security system is even in use on the medical devices they use everyday!
Cybersecurity experts have tried to offer solutions to these holes within hospital’s cyber security, but their efforts are often fruitless. The tension between doctors and cybersecurity leads to hesitance in updating security and leads to even more problems with the security of stored data. Doctors seem to worry more about the physical protection of their patients’ data, and see cybersecurity as more of an afterthought. What they might not realize however, is that leaving holes within their cybersecurity system is directly leaving patients information vulnerable to being hacked.
So what is the solution to these problems? Many hospitals are switching to installing blockchain applications and have seen great improvements in their security. Blockchain application wearable and remote monitoring devices can replace old technology with a more secure and user friendly model. All information that is recorded with these devices is stored in a patient hub containing all patient records, making obtaining information easier for providers. Providers are able to use this information to deliver personalized care to patients, and they are able to track the devices and view patients stats in real time.
Blockchain applications are also less reliant on human interference, reducing human errors significantly compared to the devices that are being used in most hospitals right now. All data that is stored within security systems powered by blockchain applications is stored much more securely than current security systems, and lessens the chances of hackers being able to access sensitive information.
Patients trust their healthcare providers to deliver personalized care while protecting their privacy, and doctors try their best to uphold this trust. With the transition to more remotely stored data, it is becoming more and more difficult for hospitals to ensure that patient data is being kept secure. To maintain this level of trust between patients and providers, it is imperative to begin using blockchain applications in daily routines in hospitals
