Cybersecurity in healthcare is the practice of protecting electronic health information and healthcare IT systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. It involves a comprehensive strategy to protect against cyber threats such as ransomware, phishing attacks, and data breaches.

The healthcare industry has more data breaches than any other major industry.¹ This is because stakeholders are increasingly relying on electronic systems for managing patient records, delivering care, and supporting day-to-day operations. Also, the size of the healthcare market — with its substantial financial flows and the trove of sensitive data it holds — makes it an attractive target for cybercriminals.

At the same time, many healthcare institutions face budgetary and staffing constraints, which makes it challenging to maintain an adequate cybersecurity posture. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, requiring healthcare organizations to stay vigilant and adapt their security measures to keep pace with new tactics and vulnerabilities. Prioritizing cybersecurity to safeguard patient data has, and will continue to be, an ongoing responsibility for healthcare leadership.