Healthcare IoT Security Operations Maturity: A Rationalized Approach to a New Normal

Contributed by Medigate

Abstract
IoT cybersecurity management products are a key enabler of connected health. The global solution market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28% over the next three years, and the healthcare sector is projected to experience the highest rate of growth.1 Not surprisingly, healthcare delivery organizations (HDOs) are rapidly investing in these solutions, as they address the operational challenges to scalable, safe delivery. Interestingly, however, the adoption is occurring despite how hospital cultures still lag in their understanding of the real stakes and the capabilities that enable a desirable future state. This paper suggests that a more simplified approach to modernizing healthcare security operations is warranted. It suggests that a renewed focus on foundational enhancements presents a more rational path to maturity. The “blocking and tackling” sports analogy comes to mind, as only teams that effectively execute at this level can successfully move to the next. 

Introduction
The explosion in connected health is driving a revolution in care delivery. To safely support this transformation, a blend of positive and negative pressures are driving HDOs to invest in security operations maturity. On the positive side, the shift to value-based reimbursement is in lockstep with the journey. And because healthcare operations research has never been well-funded, HDOs are learning that their investments in maturity are easily cost-justified. On the negative side, protections against cyber risk are rapidly becoming a matter of compliance. And, the COVID-19 pandemic has served as yet another catalyst, as it has created a perfect storm for adversaries. The volume of attacks following the first lockdown was staggering. Through June of 2021, 93% more ransomware attacks have been carried out than in the same period last year. The surge has given rise to “triple extortion” techniques whereby attackers, in addition to seeking payment from the HDO, also coerce payments from patients and business partners.

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