The
healthcare industry holds the most sensitive data imaginable: our personal
health information. Protecting this data from cyber threats is paramount, and
the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) just took a major step
towards that goal. As part of their new cyber initiative, HHS has laid out
specific cybersecurity goals for healthcare companies, including doctors,
billing companies, and medical SaaS providers./
One of the most critical goals emphasizes vendor and supplier cybersecurity requirements.
This means healthcare businesses must proactively identify, assess, and
mitigate the risks associated with third-party products and services. Your EHR
vendor, cloud storage provider, and even your email system are all part of your
digital ecosystem, and their security vulnerabilities can become your own.
What does this mean for your business?
The
desired outcome of the HHS initiative is the creation of robust contracts with
suppliers and third-party partners. These contracts must stipulate specific
security measures that align with your own cybersecurity program and Cyber
Supply Chain Risk Management Plan (CSCP). The HHS has also highlighted email
protection systems and Cybersecurity Oversight and Governance (CDOG) as key
HICP practices for mitigating supply chain risk.
Taking Action: Protecting Your Business and Your Patients
Here are some actionable steps you can take to comply with the HHS initiative
and strengthen your security posture:
- Conduct thorough
vendor assessments: Evaluate the cybersecurity practices of your existing
and potential vendors, including their data security policies, penetration
testing procedures, and incident response plans.
- Negotiate clear
contracts: Include clauses that obligate vendors to maintain specific
security standards, promptly report breaches, and cooperate with your
incident response efforts.
- Implement HICP
practices: Invest in robust email protection systems and establish a
strong CDOG framework to ensure proactive cybersecurity oversight and
governance.
- Develop a CSCP:
Create a comprehensive plan for managing supply chain cyber risks,
outlining procedures for assessing vendors, monitoring their performance,
and taking corrective action if necessary.
Compliance Beyond Regulations: Building Trust and Resilience
While
complying with the HHS initiative is essential, remember that the ultimate goal
is not just regulatory compliance, but building a truly secure and resilient
healthcare ecosystem. By proactively managing your supply chain risks, you not
only protect sensitive patient data but also build trust with your patients and
partners.
This new HHS initiative is a clear signal that the healthcare industry needs to
take a more proactive approach to cybersecurity. By embracing these regulations
and implementing robust vendor security measures, you can demonstrate your
commitment to patient privacy and position your business for success in the
increasingly complex digital landscape of healthcare.
VECTOR CHOICE ADVANTAGE
Vector Choice is here to assist and support your business with the HHS cyber initiatives. Contact us today to learn more!
