The healthcare sector is undergoing a massive transformation, moving from traditional, centralised systems to a more complex, interconnected web of remote working, cloud-based services, and a plethora of connected devices.
This evolution has exponentially increased the scope and scale of cybersecurity challenges. As such, healthcare needs to be considered just as vulnerable as the rest of our critical national infrastructure – and protecting it needs to be taken just as seriously.
Healthcare has evolved from a simple, location-based service model to a highly distributed system. In the past, a company operated from a single location, with employees working on-site using secure systems. Today, the landscape is vastly different. Remote working, home offices, and the myriad of connected devices that employees carry have expanded the boundaries of the workplace.
Data no longer resides in one secure location – it flows seamlessly into the cloud, accessible from anywhere.
At Creo Medical, our technology is embedded in hospitals, interacting with patient data through sophisticated software. This includes robotic systems that collect procedural data and advanced AI algorithms that learn and improve based on real-world usage. The sheer number of people and organisations connected to these systems, combined with the continuous connection of devices, creates an expansive and complex ecosystem of risk.
The healthcare sector deals with an enormous volume of highly sensitive data. Patient information, procedural data, and AI learning data are all invaluable and require stringent protection. A breach can lead to severe reputational damage for hospitals, patients, and the companies involved.
Intellectual property (IP) in healthcare technology is extremely valuable. Developing new technologies and treatments is a time-consuming and highly regulated process, creating significant barriers to entry. Consequently, the IP generated in this sector is a prime target for theft and exploitation. Protecting this IP is crucial, yet challenging, especially when the primary focus is on improving patient outcomes.
Protecting sensitive data, securing intellectual property, and maintaining robust cybersecurity practices are critical to safeguarding the industry.
As we continue to innovate and improve patient care, cybersecurity must remain a top priority.
If you’d like to know more about getting your team skilled in cyber, take a look at Cyber Innovation Hub’s short, hands on upskilling courses, and if you would like to know more about immersive testing of your networks and devices, check out the Cyber Innovation Hub testbed facilities
