Kriti PatelIn an article for Palo Alto Networks, Wendy Roodhooft, Security Officer at AZ Vesalius, outlines the key priorities for cybersecurity leaders in the healthcare industry. Roodhooft highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by the growth of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices, the evolving regulatory environment, and the need to leverage automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity consolidation.
With the increased adoption of IoMT devices in healthcare, cybersecurity departments face the challenge of securing a larger attack surface and a lack of control and visibility over these devices, due to inconsistent update policies and vulnerabilities. However, Roodhooft suggests that cybersecurity consolidation can help mitigate these risks by providing greater visibility and control over IoMT devices through a single console.
In terms of regulatory compliance, Roodhooft notes the changing landscape in Belgium, as hospitals prepare to move to NIS2 and face increasing administrative requirements. She highlights the importance of technical solutions, such as cybersecurity consolidation, in meeting regulatory requirements, but acknowledges the challenge of finding qualified personnel to deal with changing regulations.
Roodhooft sees automation, AI, and cybersecurity consolidation as the future of cybersecurity in healthcare, allowing organizations to do more with machines and alleviate the burden on staff. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in the cybersecurity industry, as well as recognizing the passion and opportunity for contribution that comes with working in healthcare.
Roodhooft concludes the article by stressing the importance of creating a plan and roadmap for cybersecurity leaders in healthcare, rather than buying tools for a quick fix. By embracing strategies for IoMT, compliance, automation, AI, and consolidation, healthcare organizations can strengthen their cyber resilience and deliver secure, high-quality care.
