Just like their civilian counterparts, the medical facilities run by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Defense Department rely on modern technology, using everything from electronic health records to networked diagnostic equipment and 5G-enabled technology.”
“More than 6 million people use the VA’s 1,243 healthcare facilities worldwide; 9.5 million active-duty service members, military retirees and the families of both get care in nearly 500 military hospitals and clinics through the Military Health System, run by the Defense Health Agency.”
“The VA, which already has an elaborate cybersecurity framework, is working with Massachusetts General Hospital and Shepherd University to research new cybersecurity and compatibility measures for its medical devices and hopes to upgrade cybersecurity standards and practices for network-connectable medical devices, medical data systems and other related technology.”
“Not only does the MHS/DHA work protect patient data in its facilities, it also offers tips to patients — many of whom are tempting targets for hackers and other threats — to protect themselves outside the doctor’s office…”
The Shift to Telehealth Highlights New Security Challenges
“October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the theme for week three is ‘Securing Internet-Connected Devices in Healthcare.’ The healthcare sector in general has become a popular target for hackers…” Read the full article here.
Source: VA, DOD Work to Protect Patient Information and Secure Devices – By Elizabeth Neus, October 22, 2020. FedTech Magazine.
