In an era where technology underpins much of our healthcare infrastructure, the threat of cyberattacks has become a dire reality for post-acute care organizations, who increasingly find themselves targeted by cybercriminals.
Organizations like yours often house sensitive patient information, including personal identification details, medical histories, and payment information. This data is highly valuable on the black market, making healthcare facilities attractive targets.
The immediate disruption of services can have cascading effects on patient care and safety. For instance, when systems go offline, healthcare providers lose access to real-time patient information, which is crucial for treating conditions accurately and efficiently. Medication administration can be delayed or mishandled without proper records, and critical test results may be inaccessible.
The psychological impact on patients and staff is another significant concern. Patients may experience increased anxiety and stress due to delays in care and uncertainty about their treatment plans. Healthcare providers, already working in high-stress environments, face additional pressure as they navigate manual processes and attempt to maintain quality care under challenging circumstances.
Moreover, the financial strain of a cyberattack can be substantial. The costs associated with restoring systems, recovering data, and implementing additional security measures can be overwhelming, particularly for smaller post-acute care organizations with limited budgets. These financial burdens can divert resources away from patient care, further exacerbating the impact on the organization.
The impact of cyberattacks on post-acute care organizations can be severe. For instance, in 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack affected numerous healthcare facilities worldwide, including post-acute care centers. The attack caused widespread chaos, disrupting operations and compromising patient safety. In the aftermath, many organizations had to invest heavily in IT infrastructure upgrades and cybersecurity training to prevent future incidents.
In 2020, Lorien Health Services notified it’s 47,000+ residents that their data may have been stolen and encrypted by the ransomware strain NetWalk, which has a history of attacking healthcare organizations. Data exposed included residents’ names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, addresses, medical history, and treatment information.
More recently, an operating group of nursing homes in the Midwest declared bankruptcy, citing ongoing financial problems that stemmed from an October 2023 ransomware attack—a problem further exacerbated by the recent Change Healthcare cyberattack in February of 2024.
Given the serious nature of these threats, it is imperative for post-acute care organizations to implement robust cybersecurity measures. Here are some key strategies to protect against cyberattacks:
The Need For Ongoing Cybersecurity Training
Among the various strategies, ongoing cybersecurity training stands out as a critical component. Training programs that go beyond HIPAA, such as those offered by Showdme address the unique challenges faced by post-acute care organizations, including:
The threat of cybercriminals to post-acute care organizations is real and growing. The consequences of cyberattacks can be devastating, but by implementing robust cybersecurity measures and fostering a culture of security awareness, these organizations can protect themselves and their patients. Ongoing cybersecurity training for your entire staff, in particular, plays a vital role in equipping staff with the knowledge and skills needed to defend against cyber threats. By prioritizing cybersecurity, post-acute care organizations can ensure the safety and well-being of their patients and maintain the trust and confidence of their stakeholders.
Let Showd.me deliver the essential training your employees need, saving you time, reducing training costs, and ensuring compliance. No heavy lift required!
