Navigating the complexities of healthcare IT - The role of unified endpoint management

Greetings, and welcome back to Hexnode Deep Dive, your one-stop shop where we uncover the intricacies and obstacles that pepper today's modern workplace. This week let's dive into the vital role of Unified Endpoint Management in healthcare.

On August 6, 2023, McLaren Health, a popular hospital chain in Michigan fell victim to yet another cyberattack - barely a year after ransomware compromised the data of over 2.2 million patients. This latest attack has caused operations across its 13 hospitals, cancer centers and clinics to be disrupted, and this is making the healthcare sector sit up with alarm. Unfortunately, this isn't an isolated incident, but rather an example of a general trend that faces health care systems globally.

What are the real threats facing healthcare today?

The increasing number of devices in healthcare, from patient care to admin systems, brings both convenience and risk. Also, with the prevalence of IoMT (Internet of Medical Things) devices, the attack surface of the healthcare sector has increased substantially. There were studies that explained how cyber criminals exploit mission critical devices in healthcare which were still running on the default passwords that were configured when it was built or brought.

The increasing reliance on cloud-based systems and Electronic Health Records (EHRs) amplifies the problem. These digital repositories, filled with sensitive patient data, are key victims of cyber threats. A successful breach could expose confidential information, compromising patient privacy and potentially endangering lives.

The 2019 ransomware attack on Springhill Medical Center, Alabama, which caused disruption of fetal heart rate monitors during childbirth serves as a poignant reminder of the real-world implications of such vulnerabilities. Timely security updates and advanced security solutions can help healthcare organizations minimize these risks.

The role of UEM in healthcare

All these incidents raise a critical question - how can healthcare organizations navigate the surge in connected devices without risking operational disruptions?

A unified endpoint management (UEM) solution brings all aspects of device management, security, and compliance into one centralized platform. With a UEM like Hexnode, hospitals can remotely monitor, configure, and update devices, easing the challenges of handling numerous devices. Furthermore, with features like kiosk mode, healthcare providers can limit device functionalities, ensuring more efficient and secure management.

Given the critical nature of medical information and operations, ensuring robust security measures is non-negotiable. Hexnode has this covered by encrypting ePHI, so data stays safe even if a device goes missing. Plus, features like remote wipe and geofencing add an extra layer of protection, blocking any unauthorized access. With real-time monitoring, automated patch management, and control over unauthorized apps, Hexnode keeps vulnerabilities in check. And by automating security updates, Hexnode makes sure healthcare providers stay on top of data protection and keep patient trust strong.

In terms of compliance, Hexnode aligns with HIPAA and HITECH regulations, enforcing access controls through multi-factor authentication (MFA). The platform also supports audit trails and detailed logs, providing real-time reports to ensure that all device activities are compliant.

Creating a secure and efficient future for healthcare

The healthcare industry's increasing reliance on digital tools is driving a sudden escalation in device intricacy. UEM provides a solution for this by allowing healthcare organizations to manage all devices from a single platform, striking a balance between efficiency and security. This ensures critical systems stay up and running while safeguarding patient data.

These recent cyberattacks on healthcare organizations serve as a wake-up call. It’s time to ask: are you fully prepared to manage the growing number of devices in your healthcare environment, or are you leaving your organization vulnerable to the next attack?

Stay tuned for more insights and expertise in the upcoming editions of Hexnode Deep Dive.