In one of the largest healthcare data breaches to date, at least 190 million patient records were stolen. The company at the center of the attack, Change Healthcare, fell victim to ransomware, crippling healthcare operations for weeks. Providers were unable to process claims, verify insurance, or access vital patient data.

Lawsuits flooded in from healthcare providers and patients alike. And even though the breach occurred over a year ago, Change Healthcare is still struggling with the fallout.

The most striking part? This attack could have been easily prevented. Hackers gained access using stolen credentials, exploiting a system without multi-factor authentication (MFA).

With cybersecurity threats growing, protecting your organization is more critical than ever. Let’s explore why healthcare IT services matter and how a proactive security approach can keep your organization safe.

The Risks of a Reactive Security Approach 

Common Threats Facing Healthcare Organizations 

If you’re thinking, “This could never happen to me,” you might need to reconsider—data breaches are more likely than you might assume. In a recent survey, 92% of U.S. healthcare organizations interviewed experienced at least one cyberattack in the last year.

Some of the most common threats include: 

• Ransomware attacks: Malicious software that encrypts data or locks victims out of their systems until a ransom is paid.
• Phishing schemes: Tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information (like passwords, phone numbers, or credit card information).
• Insider threats: Any internal risks, intentional or accidental.
• Data breaches: Any unauthorized access to protected information (like personal data, financial records, or proprietary information).

Because healthcare organizations store massive amounts of personal information, they are prime targets for attackers.

Consequences of Data Breaches and Ransomware Attacks 

The repercussions of a data breach in the healthcare industry can be devastating. For example, the American Medical Collection Agency (AMCA) filed for bankruptcy in 2019, due to the costs and consequences of their data breach. Some other consequences include:

• Regulatory penalties for non-compliance with data protection laws. 
• Operational downtime when critical systems are rendered unusable. 
• Reputation damage that leads to a loss of trust among patients. 

More than 7 million people were affected by the data breach at AMCA, after repeated warnings that their systems needed better protection. This loss of trust can’t be fixed with two years of credit monitoring.

Key Parts of a Proactive IT Security Strategy 

Meeting compliance standards like HIPAA is essential, but it’s only the starting point. Proactive security strategies help companies recognize and prepare against threats before they become breaches. These might include:

1. Risk Assessments and Vulnerability Management 

The first thing you need to analyze is where your systems’ weaknesses are. What limitations or vulnerabilities do you have? Are you using MFA and securing your network? Reviewing these can help you pinpoint where you need help. IT services for healthcare companies can help you get started.

2. Advanced Threat Detection and Response Systems 

Investing in tools like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) or Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) platforms can give you real-time insights. These platforms can analyze patterns of behavior and show anomalies

3. Employee Training and Security Awareness Programs 

Your staff is both your greatest asset and your biggest risk. Attackers were able to breach Change Healthcare using stolen credentials, which were compromised through a phishing email. Proper training can help your employees recognize threats.

4. Endpoint Protection and Network Segmentation 

Remote work is more common now than ever before. With this rise, however, endpoint devices (laptops, tablets, and mobile phones) have become prime targets for attacks. Endpoint protection software and network segmentation can quarantine compromised devices and limit the spread of any malware.

5. Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Planning 

With increasing numbers and sophistication in cyber attacks, you can’t plan for everything. As your security evolves, ensure you’re preparing for both disaster recovery and business continuity. This will help you protect data, reduce downtime, and get back on your feet as soon as possible.

A Trusted IT Partner Can Strengthen Your Security 

Navigating the world of cybersecurity and IT right now is no small feat. That’s why finding a Managed Service Provider (MSP) for your healthcare IT services can help.

• MSPs can improve your security by providing proactive monitoring, regular updates, and endpoint security to protect against cyber threats.
• Managed IT services offer 24/7 monitoring and expert support to ensure that threats are identified and mitigated as soon as possible, even when you’re not on the clock.
• MSPs can help with proactive security and compliance so you can meet regulatory standards and build strategies to protect against new threats.

Turning Compliance to Confidence with IronEdge IT Services

Building on your compliance-based security can be overwhelming. It can be hard to know where to start. IronEdge provides expert healthcare IT services to help you stay compliant and build a proactive strategy for the future.

Get in touch with our team to protect your patient’s data and your organization today!